Driving With Pets

Written by Kyrstie Waters (last updated June 13, 2009)

Many people take their pets on trips in the car. If you are one of these people, or are planning on being one of these people, start while your pet is young. This will allow your pet to get used to the car rides. There are a few things you can do to keep your pet safe and happy while you drive.

While the car is moving, do not let your pets roam freely in the car. This is very dangerous to them and the other passengers. Cats should always be kept in a carrier, firmly seatbelted, while dogs should always be securely seatbelted in the back seat. Roll your back windows down a little bit to provide some fresh air for your pets. Do not let your pet stick its head out the window. Objects too close to the road can severely injure and even kill your pet. Only leave the windows down slightly to prevent your pet from doing this.

Stop the car every hour or so to allow your pet to stretch its legs and walk around. Always make sure you have control over your pet's leash when it is not in the vehicle. Allow your pet to eat, drink, eliminate and play for a half hour or so before getting back into the car. Do not ever leave your pet in a parked car. The car will overheat and cause your pet to suffocate. It is always a good idea to have your pet wear identification tags and collars when you are on a trip. Bring a pet First Aid kit with you on your trip for emergencies.

If you plan on stopping at a hotel on your trip, it is a good idea to check with them beforehand about allowing pets. It is wise to plan the hotels you are going to stay at before you even leave. Many hotels allow pets to stay, however it is important to double-check with them before you get there.

Driving with pets can be a fun experience, so enjoy it! I have two dogs of my own that I have taken on long car trips. It is very important to keep these tips in mind as you travel with your pets. Most pets will do just fine on a car trip. However, it is important to keep these tips in mind just in case something happens while you are on your trip. Have fun on your trip and enjoy your furry friend's company!

Author Bio

Kyrstie Waters

MORE FROM KYRSTIE

What Do Snakes Eat?

What a snake eats depends on its species, growth and habitat. Size is also a factor for what a snake will eat. All snakes ...

Discover More

Basic Care Of Gerbils

Gerbils are very active critters that love to burrow and dig. Providing your new gerbils with a proper house is one of ...

Discover More

Basic Care of Hamsters

Most hamsters need to be hand tamed by their owners when they are new pets. Some hamsters have not been domesticated as ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Protect Pets from Thieves when In the Car

It's not too uncommon to see pets sitting in the car while their owners are off buying groceries or something of the ...

Discover More

Teach Pets to Love the Car

Sometimes you either want or have to take your dog with you in the car, and your pet may not act so excited about it. ...

Discover More

Should You Travel With or Kennel Your Pet?

If there is one situation that has the potential to create havoc with you, your pet, and possibly your pocketbook, it is ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 2 + 8?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)