How To Keep Your Pets Car Safe On A Road Trip

Bringing your furry companions along for the ride can be a delightful experience. However, ensuring their safety (and yours) during road trips is essential. Here are some safety tips to keep your pets safe on your next adventure.

Why Pet Car Safety Is Crucial 

More pet owners are including their pets in daily routines, whether for companionship, exercise or simply to avoid mischief at home. Yet, safety can often be an afterthought until incidents occur, like a hamster hiding behind the brake pedal or a dog precariously hanging out of the window. 

Remember, as drivers, we are responsible for the safety of all passengers, including our pets. Driving with unrestrained pets can be distracting and dangerous, akin to using a mobile phone while driving. It’s illegal in many places to have pets on your lap while driving, and laws vary by state regarding other aspects of travelling with pets. No matter where you are in Australia, pets must be properly restrained to avoid distractions and hazards.

Restrain Your Pet

If you love your travel buddies, you’ll make sure they’re safely restrained. Thousands of dog injuries occur each year from vehicle accidents, and unrestrained pets can become dangerous projectiles in sudden stops or crashes. Here’s how to keep them secure:

Seat Belt Harnesses

For dogs, seat belt harnesses are an excellent option. Remember to check that the harness complies with regulations and is crash-tested. These body harnesses loop around the seatbelt, keeping your dog secure while allowing them to sit comfortably.

Carriers and Crates

For smaller pets, use a cat carrier, ideally placed behind a cargo barrier. If that’s not possible, secure the carrier with a seatbelt. Dogs can also travel in dog carriers or crates, as long as they’re spacious enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Transporting Dogs in Utes

Transporting dogs in utes has improved, but proper restraint is still important. Use cages or tethering to comply with legal requirements. Secure leads or chains to the middle point of the cabin, ensuring they’re attached to a fitted collar or harness and are short enough to prevent the dog from reaching the sides of the vehicle.

Take Regular Rest Breaks

Driving long distances requires regular breaks for both you and your pets. Stop every two hours to stretch, hydrate, and take toilet breaks. Plan your route with rest areas or parks in mind so your pet gets the exercise they need.

Never Leave Pets Unattended

Never leave your pets alone in the car for extended periods, especially on hot days. Even with windows cracked, car temperatures can soar dangerously high. If you must make a stop, take turns with a companion or use drive-through services. If you have a convertible or utility vehicle, check that your pets have shade and are protected from external conditions.

Your pets rely on you for their safety and comfort during road trips. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a pleasant and secure journey for everyone involved. Remember, secure and comfortable pets make for a happier, stress-free trip!