Does your canine buddy get super excited when you jingle your car keys? Many dogs love going for car rides. There’s nothing wrong with taking Fido out and about with you, or bringing him to parks or trails. Just be sure to put your pet’s safety first. A Lake Murray, OK vet offers some tips on this below.
Keep Fido Crated
The best thing you can do to keep your furry best friend safe on your travels is to keep him in a crate. Even if your pup is well-behaved in the car, he’s much safer in a contained space. If you were to get into an accident, Fido could be seriously hurt! You can also look into dog gates and other options. Just read reviews and ratings carefully, as some of these products aren’t quite as safe as they may seem.
Never Leave Your Dog Unattended
We can’t overstate the importance of this one. Never leave Fido by himself in a car. This is especially dangerous in hot weather. Because of the way glass windows trap light, the temperatures inside closed vehicles can reach deadly levels in just a few minutes. There is an exception if you have a Tesla with a pet mode, but even that can be dangerous.
Don’t Let Your Pooch Hang Out The Window
Fido may love sticking his nose out the window and sniffing the air, but this can actually be quite dangerous. Your canine pal could get bugs, rocks, dust, and even cigarette butts in his face! He’d also be extremely vulnerable to being hurt and/or thrown in case of an accident or even a sudden stop.
Break Up Long Drives
Headed out on a road trip with your furry best friend? Let Fido stretch his legs regularly. You can make this a bit more fun by using an app to locate dog parks or pet-friendly trails in the areas you’re passing through.
Shop Pet Friendly
Are you in the market for a new car? While you’re researching possible options, look for cars that have high ratings for being pet-friendly. These may offer helpful perks that can really come in handy. For instance, some may be easy for Fidos to get in and out of, while others may also have extra durable upholstery to help keep your new car clean.
Please reach out with any questions about your dog’s health or care. As your Lake Murray, OK animal hospital, we’re here for you!
