*Updated 6/2023

Traveling Safely with Your Pet: A Comprehensive Guide

Our pets are an integral part of our families and it’s so important to keep them safe while traveling. Whether it’s a visit to the vet or an extended family trip, understanding how to travel safely with your pet is crucial.

And I’m not just talking about our canine friends here–I’m also talking to y’all who take your cat, parrot, or mini pig on car rides. This guide applies to any creature who goes on fun adventures with its owner!

Let’s take a deep dive into the most critical aspects of pet safety during travel, all backed by statistics from the AAA/Kurgo Pet Passenger Safety Study.

Understanding the Importance of Pet Safety During Travel

The AAA/Kurgo Pet Passenger Safety Study reveals a worrying trend among pet owners. The data suggests that while they often transport dogs in their cars, many need to take the most basic and necessary safety measures.

The Current Scenario: Pet Safety Statistics

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there are 78 million dogs in 46 million U.S. households. The survey shows that nearly 56% of these owners drive with their dogs at least once a month.

However, 29% of respondents admit to being distracted by their dogs while driving. Furthermore, 65% of dog owners engage in at least one potentially distracting activity when driving with their dogs, escalating the risk of accidents.

Unrestrained Pets and Driver Distractions

The frequency of pet travel raises concerns about distracted driving. As revealed by the survey, 29% of respondents admit to being distracted by their dogs while driving.

What’s Distracting the Drivers?

The AAA/Kurgo survey provides data into what is distracting drivers when traveling with dogs:

• A considerable 65% of dog owners have engaged in at least one potentially distracting activity while driving.
• These actions include petting their dogs (52%), using their hands or arms to restrict the dog’s movement (23%), and even giving food or treats to their dogs (13%).

Awareness vs. Action in Pet Safety

Perception of Risk with Unrestrained Pets

Despite the alarming statistics on distracted driving, there’s a significant disparity between people’s understanding of pet safety and their actions.

Over 83% of respondents agreed that having an unrestrained dog in a moving car can be extremely dangerous, yet only 16% of respondents used some form of restraint for their dogs.

The Consequences of Unrestrained Pets in Crashes

The importance of using pet restraints becomes even more evident when considering the potential consequences of a crash.

For instance, an unrestrained 10-pound dog in a crash at 50 mph will exert roughly 500 pounds of force, while an unrestrained 80-pound dog at just 30 mph exerts about 2400 pounds of force.

Pet Owner Awareness and Dog Restraint Usage

Interestingly, awareness plays a critical role in influencing pet owners’ behaviors.

The survey found that pet owners who’ve heard of situations where unrestrained dogs were injured or caused injury to other passengers in a car crash were three times more likely to use a pet restraint (32%) compared to respondents unaware of such situations (9%).

Practical Tips for Safe Pet Travel

Basic Safety Measures

Having your pet under your control at all times is required by law, whether on walks or traveling by car. Leash your dog before opening the vehicle door to prevent them from darting out into traffic or running away.

Also, keeping your pet’s head and paws inside the car is essential, preventing any injuries from passing vehicles, hematomas developing in ear flaps, or loose roadside objects.

Dog owners think their dogs’ ears flapping in the wind is adorable, but the forces applied to the pinna (ear flaps) can rupture blood vessels, causing a hematoma to form. Hematomas require anesthetic and surgery to repair, which is expensive for you and both stressful and uncomfortable for your dog.

And if you’ve ever had to file a claim for windshield damage from a small stone, imagine the damage that stone could do to your dog’s eyes, ears, or face. What a sobering thought!

The Correct Way to Restrain Your Pet

Restrain your pet using a crate or vehicle pet restraint system. Hard-sided pet travel crates, harnesses/safety belts, and pet vehicle seats are excellent and affordable pet restraint options. These tools keep your pet safe and reduce driver distraction.

Support Your Pet with Proper Hydration

Many dogs tend to pant excessively in the car due to anxiety, excitement, or hot weather. This can lead to dehydration, making keeping your pet hydrated during car rides even more crucial.

Bring enough water and a portable water bowl to offer your pet regular access to fresh water. Hydration is vital for your pet’s well-being and can help them stay comfortable and healthy throughout the journey.

Carry a Pet First Aid Kit in Your Car

Keeping a well-stocked pet first aid kit in the car could be a lifesaver after an accident or injury. Also, essentials like cool water and a drinking bowl should be part of your pet’s travel kit. Carry at least a gallon or two each for you and your dog, in the event of a road emergency and during hot months of the year.

Misconceptions About Pet Restraints

Many pet owners don’t use restraints because of their misconceptions about safety practices for pets. Some believe their pets are calm and don’t require restraint, while others have never considered their importance.

Surprisingly, 29% of pet owners don’t use restraints because they only take their dogs on short trips. But the fact remains that an unrestrained pet is a risk, no matter how long or short the journey is.

Your Role in Ensuring Pet Travel Safety

As a pet owner, you must ensure your pet’s safety during travel.

Every step matters, from understanding the dangers of distracted driving to learning about the correct pet restraints and why they’re essential.

Remember, a safe journey is always more enjoyable for you and your beloved pet. Protect your pets, and they’ll thank you with their endless love and loyalty. Safe travels!

Kurgo Dog Travel & Adventure Products

Kurgo has an incredible line of pet gear for owners who travel with their dogs and other pets. Visit their store today and see what they have for your special buddy!

Pet Safety FAQ

Why is it essential to leash my dog before opening the vehicle door?

Leashing your dog before opening the vehicle door is crucial to prevent them from darting out uncontrolled. Hundreds of pets are lost or injured yearly when they suddenly rush out of cars. When you keep your dog on a leash, you can ensure their safety and avoid potential accidents or the heartbreaking experience of losing your friend.

Why shouldn’t I let my pet put its head out the car window or ride in the back of a truck?

Keeping your pet’s head and paws inside the car while traveling is essential. Allowing them to put their heads out the window or ride on the back of a truck exposes them to multiple risks. They are vulnerable to flying debris, stinging insects, or the sudden impact of another vehicle. Also, they could jump through the window or fall out of the car, leading to severe injuries and death.

Why should pets not ride in the front seat?

Pets riding in the front seat can pose a significant distraction for drivers and car air bags can be deadly for children and pets in the front seat.  To prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road, it’s best to keep your pet secure in the back seat or use appropriate pet restraints to minimize distractions and maintain focus while driving.

Why should I restrain my pet with a crate or vehicle pet restraint system?

Securing your pet with a crate or vehicle pet restraint system is essential for their safety during car journeys. Manufacturers like Kurgo offer pet carrier restraints and dog harnesses for use with a dog seat belt or a zipline spanning the width of the backseat.

These restraints help prevent your pet from roaming freely inside the car, which can distract the driver or cause harm during sudden stops or accidents. By using proper restraints, you ensure that your pet remains secure and protected throughout the trip.

Resources

Ask the Vet: Can dogs get hurt sticking their heads out of car windows?

AAA/Kurgo Pet Passenger Safety Study