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Most dogs enjoy riding in cars. They are delighted to be out with their best friend, seeing sights and hearing sounds that are new and interesting.
But there are dangerous situations which can turn deadly while driving with your dog.
It may look cute to see a dog hanging out of a car window, seemingly enjoying itself. But all too often, in spite of owners denying that their dog would ever behave that way, the dog will jump out the window. Perhaps the dog sees something of interest, but it doesn’t matter why. Injuries can be mild to severe and death can occur.
When a dog pokes its head out of the window of a moving car, flying objects can hit and injure them.
Another car driving too close can cause injury to your dog.
Dogs riding in the front seat face a couple of serious problems. Airbag deployment can injure them. And prancing about on the front seat can distract the driver causing accidents. If the dog is down on the floor of the car, it can get in the way of foot pedals.
There are simple rules to follow to avoid dangerous or deadly situations while driving with your dog. Here are some safety tips.
There are a number of restraints on the market made for dogs – seat belts, harnesses, car seats, carriers, and the safest, crates. These are for use in the back seat where your dog will be safest. Check with the Center for Pet Safety to see which brands of the restraints are safe for your dog.
Windows should be lowered just enough for air, but not enough for your dog to stick its head out.
Make sure your dog is microchipped and wears an ID tag just in case of accident or escape.
We all love our dogs and want to make sure they are safe when they go out riding with us.
Note: Dogs riding in the backs of open trucks without restraints are at even greater risk for injury or death.
Dr. Patty Khuly in her recent Fully Vetted blog advised of the following:
Some States including New Hampshire, Illinois, Arizona and Virginia may make seatbelts and safety seats for dogs manadatory and may ban dogs from riding in the driver’s area.
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