S ure, the idea of taking your furry pals on a road trip seems exciting, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Cars aren’t generally designed for animals so it’s your responsibility to pet-proof your vehicle.
You would want your dog or cat to be safe and comfortable at all times during the car ride. Learn how to make your car more pet-friendly and it would make the journey fun and safe for both you and your best friend.
Planning ahead would be ideal here as it would minimize the risk of any accidents.
Safety First
Children and animals should always be in the back seat for minimal distraction to the driver and to be safe from airbag movement in case of accidents. The back seat is the safest because the driver can easily focus on it. If your four-legged friend is kennel trained, then you can keep a separate crate or carrier for the car so they can stay in one corner. Just make sure the kennel is big enough for them and is customized according to their height and weight.
An alternative is a hammock cover or a seat belt harness. The hammock seat cover will protect your seats from getting dirty from the hair or fluids of your pet. If your pet is bigger in size, then a seat belt extension or a mesh barrier will prevent them from moving in the car.
Also, make sure that your vehicle’s doors and windows are automatic and child-locked. Additionally, you should not use air fresheners with chemicals in the car as their smell may be harmful to your pet. If you really want to get rid of the odor, then get a pet-friendly freshener from a pet store.
Clean Your Car
It goes without saying that your car’s interior should be sanitized and deep cleaned. Your pet may swallow any dirt or objects lying around in your vehicle. Be consistent and thorough with the cleaning and make sure to check the carpets and under the seats for food remains or tiny plastic parts.
Check for loose screws or faulty parts inside the car as your pal can nibble at them when you least expect it. Take your pets for routine checkups and grooming sessions if you can afford them. Or you can just make sure they are washed before taking them for a trip or going to the vet. Cleaning supplies like paper towels, disinfectant spray, and wipes would also come in handy in case of an emergency.
Keep the Essentials
Spontaneous adventures are fun but you should stock up on the essentials before heading out. Keep your dog or cat’s favorite toys and blanket in the car. This is in case they miss home or are sick and need comfort. Animals can get dehydrated, especially in summers, so you should keep their water bowl close to them at all times.
You can invest in a portable water bowl to avoid any spillage in the car. Don’t forget to pack their favorite treats and snacks for the ride to keep them happy. It will help them stay calm in case you get stuck in traffic or if the journey is long. You may also need to carry plastic bags in case of unplanned potty breaks. Just keep all things that will keep your pet safe and calm at all times.
During the first few rides, you would have to anticipate their needs because, after that, it will become easier to see how they respond in a car.
Practice Rides
It is advisable to be extra cautious when it comes to your pets. After doing the needful to make your car pet-friendly, consider taking your dog or cat on a practice ride. Start with short distances and see how they respond. It is advisable to keep the windows closed to prevent outside debris or dirt from going in their eyes.
Have another person to assist you in the back seat if your pet is sick. Always be sure that you are sober and ready to drive before taking them on a trip. If you have any doubts, then leave your pet with a friend or family member to look after them. Lastly, never leave your pet alone in the car.
We all love to see a dog in the car, but it takes a lot of effort and responsibility to travel with pets. After practicing how to make your car more pet-friendly, you can be ready for a fun-filled adventure with your adorable friend, and be worry-free because you will be prepared for every situation.
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