Many people consider their pets to be a part of their family — so when you plan your next adventure, you might want to bring them along. If you’re thinking about hitting the roads with your furry friend, you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 78% of Americans travel with their pets.
But, like many human companions, pets can be quite a handful to travel with. These quick tips can help keep everyone safe and happy whether you’re heading across town or across the country.
Don’t: Allow Yourself to Get Distracted
Distracted driving is a potentially serious problem that can occur when Fido comes along for the ride. About 29% of drivers have admitted to being distracted by their dog while driving. In addition, 65% of dog owners admit to engaging in potentially distracting activities such as petting their dog, using their hands or arms to restrain the dog, allowing their dog to sit in their lap, or feeding their dog food or treats while driving.
While this may not seem like a big deal, studies show that taking your eyes off the road for only two seconds can double your risk of getting into a crash. When you bring your dog in the car, keep everyone safe by staying focused on the road and avoiding behaviors that can pull your attention away from driving.
Do: Restrain Your Pet (Nicely)
While your pet might enjoy climbing from seat to seat, cuddling up against you, or hanging their head out the window, having an unrestrained pet in your vehicle can be dangerous. If you get into an accident while traveling at 50 mph, a 10-pound pet can exert around 500 pounds of force. At only 30 mph, an 80-pound dog can exert as much as 2,400 pounds of force. This can cause serious injury to you and your passengers and could be dangerous or even fatal to your pet.
There are many different models of doggy car seats you can purchase to keep your canine comfortable and safe at the same time. Some strap to the back of the seat, similar to a child’s car seat, while others resemble a padded crate with a chest strap to fit around your pet’s body. Just remember to put it near the window… after all, who doesn’t love a nice breeze?
Do: Plan Ahead
Before you head out on a road trip, map out your route to plan breaks for your dog. Just like humans, pets need an opportunity to stretch their legs and visit a restroom (which for them may be the nearest oak tree). Make sure you know just how long your trip is going to take and where the rest stops are.
If possible, try to find dog parks or beaches for your rest stops. This way, your dog can run around and get thoroughly tired out before hopping back into the car. A sleeping dog causes far fewer distractions than one that has been cooped up in the car for hours.
Don’t: Get Frustrated
It's sometimes hard to remember that pets aren’t humans. They don’t understand WHY they need to be restrained, or WHY they can’t just jump out of the car. They probably don’t even fully understand the words you say to them — just the sound of the word and the tone of your voice.
So, if they don’t listen to you when you tell them to sit down or stop slobbering all over the window… well, you can’t really blame them. Take a deep breath, and then bust out the Lysol when you get home. It’s just doggy drool!
Do: Practice Defensive Driving
There are few things more stressful than getting into an accident with your pet in the car. Practicing defensive driving skills can help you avoid this situation.
When traveling with your pet, don’t forget that you’re carrying precious cargo. Keep them safe by obeying the rules of the road, following vehicles at a safe distance, and keeping an eye out for potentially dangerous situations so you can proactively avoid them.
Don’t: Forget to Have Fun!
Remember — everything is better when we have our loved ones with us, including our furry friends. Take the bad with the good, and give your pet as much opportunity to enjoy themselves as you would give yourself. Having your dog by your side can change the entire trip for the better.
Make sure you have all the skills you need to keep both you and your furry friend safe on the roads! Before you plan your next trip, take a look at iDriveSafely’s online defensive driving courses. They’re quick, easy, and fun!
Updated 5/8/23
