Safe Travel with Your Pet

The hot days of summer have arrived, and that means that you need to take precautions when travelling in a vehicle with your pet. For many drivers, their pets are their travelling companions but in the summer, your pet’s comfort and safety should be a priority. Young Drivers of Canada would like to remind pet owners of the following when it comes to summertime travel and their pets.

Tips for Travelling with your Pets

1. Never leave your pet unattended in the car. The temperature inside a vehicle can quickly rise, becoming much hotter than the outside temperature. Leaving the windows cracked open will do nothing to regulate the rising temperature. In the case of dogs, they need to pant to regulate their body temperature. A hot vehicle prevents canines from panting with detrimental results to your beloved pet.

2. Many pets are not accustomed to travelling distances in a vehicle. Their short drives to the vet may be the only time they get to be a passenger in a car. Families who decide to take their pets on a road trip should ensure that they are well secured in the vehicle. A crate secured by a seat belt is the safest way to travel with your pet. If you decide to restrain your pet with a harness, ensure there is some slack to allow your pet to adjust their movement. Free roaming pets can become a projectile in the event of a collision and can be a driver distraction. 

3. Allow for breaks on your road trip. As a driver, you need to stretch your legs, and your pets also need to take a bathroom break and get some exercise. Ensure pit stops include water, and some play time with some familiar toys.

4. Prepare your pet for the journey with short trial runs to see how Fido or Skippy react to being in a vehicle. If your pet experiences motion sickness, contact your vet for possible remedies.

5. Monitor your pet. If you hear excessive panting or drooling, your best friend could be suffering from heat stroke. Seek a cool area, provide your pet with water and let them rest. If the symptoms do not improve, find a veterinarian immediately.

Canadians have taken to travelling with their pets. In Ontario alone, more than have of all pet owners travel with their pets on one road trip at least once a year. Over half of those trips are with dogs. Young Drivers would like to ensure that everyone is safe and enjoys their summer road trip!