Car Safety for Your Pet

If you’re a pet owner, you understand the desire to protect (and spoil!) your furry friend. It may not seem like such a hard task at home, but on the road it’s another story entirely. Pets can be a big distraction while driving, and devoting your attention to your pet instead of the road can lead to an accident. Prepare in advance of driving with a pet by following these tips.

Identification: Your pet should always be easily identifiable, especially when traveling. Collars should have tags that list your pet’s name, your name and your cell phone number. Even so, collars can be snagged off your pet’s neck. Microchipping your pet is the best way to ensure that he or she is always able to be identified. Just make sure the microchip is updated with your current information.

Supplies: Be sure to bring enough pet food and pure water to last the whole trip, whether it’s just to the park or a longer road trip. Yes, your pet should have access to water even on short drives. You can either freeze a bowl of water prior to leaving so your pet can lick at it for hydration or you can purchase a spill-proof water bowl. In addition, bring along any necessary medications and a few toys to keep your pet occupied and comfortable. Dogs do well with toys they can chew on, like bones or toys that can be filled with treats. For cats, bring soothing toys like catnip-filled mice, along with a portable litter box.

Security: Letting your pet roam around the car or sit on your lap presents a danger to both of you. If you get distracted or get into an accident for any other reason, your pet can be thrown into the air, possibly through a window, if allowed to roam loose. The safest way to travel with a pet is to keep your pal in a well-ventilated crate that’s strapped down to a seat. Ensure that your pet has room to stand, turn and lay down.

Hydration: We touched on this earlier, but it’s important enough to reiterate. Your pet must have access to a source of hydration. The frozen water bowl may work for short car rides, but rest stops are a better solution for longer trips. This gives your pet a chance to get out and stretch, drink, eat and go to the bathroom. We have to mention that it’s never a good idea to leave a pet unattended in a car, even as the weather cools. The interior of your car can quickly heat up when the sun is shining, making it unsafe for your dog or cat even when well-hydrated.

Stay safe on the road. Call Reliable Insurance Managers at (713) 227-7283 for more information on Katy auto insurance.

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