Most of us do something every time we hop into our cars, without even thinking about. We buckle up. Wearing seatbelts significantly lowers the risk of severe injuries, while also reducing the chance of critical injuries by more than half. So, it just makes sense that when you hit the road on moving day, you will buckle up yourself and your children. However, you may be forgetting about the safety of another important member of your family . . . your pet.
Dangers of Not “Buckling-Up” Your Pet
More pets are traveling in vehicles than ever before. Unfortunately, more of them are harmed when they are not safely secured in a vehicle. When pets are not properly secured, they can get injured and so can other passengers. A “free range” pet can easily divert the driver’s attention and result in an accident. A sudden stop or high impact accident can cause your unrestrained pet to become a projectile – causing serious injury to himself and others. Sadly, occurrences of unsecured pets being thrown through windshields are not uncommon with serious accidents.
An additional thing to consider is that if there is an accident, a frightened, unsecured pet may bolt out of the car into traffic when a rescue worker or other person opens the door. So, whether you are moving across the country, or just across town, it is necessary to properly secure your pet to keep him, you and the rest of your family safe.
Ways to Secure Your Pet
There are actually many pet vehicle safety devices to choose from. The one you select will depend on your pet. Things to consider include: type of pet, size/weight, temperament, his comfort level…and yours. Pet safety belts, pet car seats that have built-in seat belts, pet travel crates and kennels, and vehicle pet barriers are among the options available to secure your pet.
It’s important for pet parents to choose the best restraint option that their pet will easily become accustomed to and comfortable with while on the road. Be sure to give your pet time to get used to their new “buckling up” device before venturing out on a long car ride.
For instance, when choosing a travel crate, put the crate in your home with some of your pet’s favorite toys or a blanket inside to welcome him. Allow your pet to go in and out of the crate as he pleases. Then, once he seems at ease, place the crate in the vehicle and put your pet inside. Take it slow, with short car trips around town, and then gradually drive longer distances until your pet feels comfortable.
If you choose another option like a pet safety belt, allow your pet to wear the harness while at home. He needs time to become comfortable with this new device before using it in your vehicle. Similar to the travel crate, start out with short trips and slowly increase your travel distance. Whichever safety restraint you choose, the back seat or cargo area is always the safest place for your pet. When it comes to moving day, and every other day, plan for your pet’s safety and well-being when traveling in the car. Buckle up and secure the WHOLE family.
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