Dog travel tips
There are a few things to consider when travelling with your furry friendIt's not illegal to drive with your pet inside a car in Australia, but driving with your pet on your lap is risky, as it could lead to significant fines and loss of demerit points.
However, driving with your pets in cars or taking them away on holiday with you, doesn’t have to be a stressful or dangerous thing. In fact, with some planning and careful consideration, it can be a pretty fun adventure.
Here are some things to consider when travelling with pets in the car.
Invest in car restraints or dog-friendly seatbelts
It’s important to have an effective harness when travelling with your pets. This prevents injuries from happening in the event of an abrupt stop or collision, and keeps you from being distracted while driving.
A small or medium-sized dog would benefit from a chest plate with a pair of straps that cross over their back, pet baskets, or booster seats. A larger dog would need a vest-like system that looks similar to a deflated life jacket.
Keep the age and weight of your pet in mind to make sure you find a product that fits like a glove on them and protects them in the event of a minor crash.
Plan your pet’s meals ahead of time
Making sure your pet eats a meal before getting in the car (if it’s a long trip) will help, as well as a snack kit.
Regular breaks at two hour intervals will allow them to stretch and take toilet breaks, avoiding discomfort or accidents from happening.
Hydration is important, too: bring along extra bottled water. You can recycle ice cream bowls or use travel bowls for water if you need to pull over for tap access, too.
Be careful about letting your pooch window surf
Dogs love sticking their heads out of windows––the joys of people-watching, soaking up sunshine and inhaling the heavenly smell of bakery and burger joints along the way.
But there are hazards to be aware of, too, especially when it comes to the potential for eye injuries, or to be hit by another car, or get caught up in airborne contamination.
Investing in a pair of goggles or window pet vents is one way to help keep your pets safe while giving them an opportunity to make the most of the great outdoors.
Make sure your pets are wearing identification at all times
Worst case scenario: you lose your pet while out on the road. To make sure your pets have every chance of safely finding their way back to you, keep collars on, with up-to-date details including your home address and phone number.
Microchipping your pet, while more expensive, is a great investment in case collars and tags get lost (just make sure that the details you have stored on the database are up-to-date, too).
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