Why Do You Need A Dog Car Seat?
While on the road, it is crucial that you keep all distractions away including a sprightly pet. If you take your four-legged friend on long drives, a car seat for the dog becomes mandatory. It ensures the safety of the pet from sudden stops but also the safety of the driver.
Dogs tend to get anxious and restless while riding in cars and that adds to additional movement. But when comfortably straddled in a well-designed car seat, they feel secure and safe.
As a result, they are less likely to be agitated.
Finally, small dogs are always challenged by their height and unable to view the scene outside. But with booster seats, they gain good height and can enjoy the scenery around as much as you. This would not be a problem for large dogs, but not until they have grown to their adult size..
How Do They Work?
The best dog car seats are specifically designed to keep your pet safe even if you are involved in an accident. They are subject to rigorous testing just like any other car seat. They usually are a bucket-shaped or rectangular shape with high walls and come with a harness that can attach them to the regular car seat.
The booster seats are spacious for the dog to sit comfortably without giving them any additional space for movement during a ride. However, more often than not, booster seats are usually applicable only to small dogs who have difficulty getting a view of the world beyond the car window. Not so much for large dogs.
2 Different Types Of Dog Car Seats
- Bucket Shaped: Booster seats shaped like a bucket give an elevation to the dog for a vantage position. You can tether the dog to its seat and the dog harness can be attached to the car seat belt system.
- Bed shaped: These are not exactly booster seats. These are a longer and more comfortable model suitable for long drives, usually at the expense of an elevated height. While these might not be the best choice for small dogs, we would recommend these for dogs with a nervous disposition.
Tips On Choosing The Best Dog Car Seats
It is not easy to choose a suitable car seat for your pet from a sea of products. It requires hours of research and pouring over product reviews and customer feedback. We have made the job easier for you by compiling all the necessary guidelines to make the right choice
- Size: A good car seat must be the right size. Consider the length and width of the car seat before buying. Check the weight of the car seat to ensure the safety of the pet. If you are buying for puppies or small dogs, you must buy a seat that the little fellow can grow into.
- Installation Features: There are different methods of attaching a dog car seat. Some models require a headrest to hang them; some use the car's seat belt to secure and others will even use the console.
- Easy To Use: The seat must be easy to install and uninstall besides being easy to store too. Not only that it must be easy for your pet to get in and get out when unleashed. The leash must be adjustable.
- Protection Feature: The thickness of the padding plays a vital role in car seat selection. Ensure the seat has at least two inches of padding too for protection from crashes and bumps to your pet.
- Car Seat Cover: To maintain hygiene the car seat must be removable and washable. Even the material used for the cover must be non-allergenic to your pet. You must be able to wipe clean the material.
Getting Your Dog Used To A Car Seat
The next step is to get your furry friend acclimatized to the dog car seat and using it optimally. It requires patience and a well-planned strategy.
You can start with short practice sessions in your house. Use food and treats to entice it to use the seat for short periods of time. Encourage the dog to get in and sit for some time first; next, follow it up with buckling it up – you might find resistance but always be patient.
Ensure every session ends on a positive note. Research has showed that positive reinforcement always work better.
Only when your dog has associated the seat with a positive experience can you hope to have a smooth ride with it in the car seat.
Where Should You Place The Dog Car Seat?
Much as you like your pet to be by your side, you must prioritize safety first. It is suggested by several pet owners that the back seat is most suitable for dog car seats, especially behind the driver.
You can have an eye on the pet in the mirror and there is no risk of airbags suffocating the pet.
If you really want to keep your dog in the front seat, it is highly recommended to make sure that the seat is as far pushed as possible to prevent harm from airbags when inflated and disable the airbag function.
5 Important Tips For Traveling Long Distance With Your Dog
There are a lot of enjoyable moments that come with traveling with your dog. You'll have someone to keep you company and have your back throughout the journey. You will also get to make unforgettable memories with your furry best friend.
But, it can also be a challenge to travel with your pet because dogs are like small children in a way. If you wish to have a smooth and enjoyable trip, make sure to observe the following tips from fellow dog owners who've taken several road trips with their pups.
Try Shorter Distances First
Put your dog through the motions of being in a car by taking it on short trips first. This could mean driving to the doggie park or the vet now and then just to get your dog acclimated with the experience of driving around in a car.
Try to take it on fun trips so your pooch can associate being in the car with good times and fun memories. Ideally, you should do this for at least 2 months before your trip.
Buy A Dog Car Seat
Another vital investment to make when going on a road trip with your dog is that of a dog car seat. Your dog will feel a lot more comfortable and secure when perched on a specially designed dog seat, as opposed to just being on a regular car seat.
The great thing about dog car seats is that they're designed to offer optimal comfort while allowing your dog to peek at the scenery through the window without straining its neck or torso. Plus, it'll come in handy if you plan on taking long trips with your pet.
Get Some Food And Water
We know this one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many dog owners forget to bring enough water when traveling with their pet. Some of the essential items to pack when traveling with your dog include plenty of water, food, treats, toys and serving bowls, preferably the ones that your dog is familiar with.
Use A Blanket Or Bed
Dogs tend to feel more at ease when they have a familiar object next to them, like their favorite blanket or dog bed. This will reduce the likelihood of your pooch experiencing car sickness, and they can comfortably snuggle up and enjoy the ride with you.
Take Toilet Breaks
Since your dog will be enjoying snacks and treats throughout the journey, it will need to relieve himself along the way. But, unlike people, dogs can't talk, so it's hard for them to let you know when they need a toilet break or a whiff of fresh air.
To avoid toilet accidents or to have an irritable pet in the car with you, be sure to make frequent rest stops so both you and your pet can stretch your legs and breathe some fresh air. It's important to ensure your canine buddy does its nature calls at almost every stop so it can enjoy the journey as much as you are.
Best Road Trips To Take With Your Dog
When springtime rolls around, most people immediately turn their thoughts to travel and vacation plans. However, most pet owners mistakenly assume that having a dog limits your travel options. But this doesn’t have to be the case.
An increasing number of places are becoming dog-friendly to accommodate pet owners. So, you can do more than just travel to your nearest campground or park.
If you’re looking for ideas on places that you can travel to with your furry friend, you’ve come to the right place. Below is a guide on the best road trip ideas and routes that you can take to enjoy a fun trip for both you and your dog.
California Coast
The Highway One route in California is one of the most scenic trips that you can take with your pet. You’ll drive along a beautiful coastal road lined with tall trees and countryside views as well as rambling mountains and beaches. It’s truly a breathtaking sight to behold that both you and your pet will appreciate. Just make sure to buy a quality dog booster seat that’ll keep your dog comfortable and safe while you drive through winding roads during your trip.
The best route is the one which starts from San Francisco’s Fort Funston National Park where you can take your pup on a nice hike before you start your trip. From there, you’ll drive down to Carmel-by-the-Sea, one of the most dog-friendly spots in the entire region. There are a lot of pet-friendly locations here and most offer stunning views of the ocean. Afterward, you can both take a stroll to Mission Trail Park.
Route 66
It goes without saying that Route 66 is one of the most spectacular road trips you’ll ever take. It goes from Chicago and takes you to LA through the southwest, and you’ll see a lot of historic places along the way.
If you travel during the summer, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreens and other sun protection measures as the southwest can get extremely hot during this season. Also, never leave your dog alone in the car as that may lead to overheating and can compromise its safety.
Montana
Montana is a favorite among dog owners and for good reasons. It has plenty of woodlands and outdoor greenery to enjoy activities like camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming. We recommend you start your trip from the college town of Missoula where you’ll be spoilt for choice with plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and accommodations. Then, take a 50-mile drive north towards Dixon, MT’s National Bison Range. For two hours, you’ll drive through the winding road while enjoying the mind-blowing scenery, which includes birds, foothills, and meadows.
Your trip to Montana wouldn’t be complete without a drive to the Glacier National Park and from there take a 50-mile trip to the Going to the Sun Road. To truly enjoy what this region has to offer, make sure you travel during the late summer.
Seattle To The San Juan Islands
The Pacific Northwest is a must if you want to enjoy picturesque views on your way to the legendary San Juan Islands. You’ll experience a combination of breathtaking ocean views while enjoying the feeling of being on an adventure.
It’s an 80-mile drive from the city to the WSDOT ferry port in Anacortes, Washington. This is a great area for dog owners because it’s filled with groups parks and charming recreational areas for your dog to enjoy.
New England
The great thing about New England is that it’s a small region that you can easily cover in a short amount of time. You can take a slow drive and enjoy the scenery around you. There are also plenty of dog-friendly spots that’ll knock your socks off. Of course, New England is famous for leaf-peeping, and the best times to enjoy this stunning show is from late summer to early fall.
We recommend you start the drive from Portland Maine because you can catch a ferry ride to the neighboring islands. From there, drive northwest until you reach New Hampshire and if you like camping or hiking, make sure to stop by the White Mountain National Forest.
Car Sickness in Dogs: 5 Tips to Make Your Pooch Feel Better
Similar to humans, dogs experience car sickness sometimes, and it can happen in the most inconvenient times. Dogs don’t typically show any prior symptoms before experiencing car sickness so it can come as a surprise.
Understandably, car sickness will most probably cut your trip short because your dog will have made a mess on your seats. It can also be stressful for both you and your dog.
The good news is there is a way to overcome car sickness and the symptoms it comes with. This includes taking simple measures to make your car more comfortable, to giving your pet medications that’ll calm the symptoms.
Find Out Why Your Dog Gets Car Sick
The first step to treating your dog’s car sickness is to figure out why it’s happening in the first place. It’s important not to freak out and realize that it’s quite common in dogs of all ages and breeds.
However, it’s usually young pups that feel most uncomfortable riding in a car because it’s a new experience for them and they don’t know what to expect. As a result, you might notice that your puppy is acting a bit jittery because it’s excited yet nervous at the same time. Again, this is normal even for larger pets because they associate car rides with vet visits and needles.
No matter how many times you try to explain to your pet that you’re taking them to the park for a playdate, it’s not until you get there that they’ll feel comfortable. Some pups feel uncomfortable traveling because they haven’t physically developed fully to deal with the sensation of being in a car yet.
Get A Dog Car Seat
Dog car seats are designed to provide safety and comfort for pets while traveling. They allow you to secure your dog and make sure his torso doesn’t move around so much that your dog gets motion sickness.
Open The Car Window For Some Fresh Air
As you may have noticed, dogs love putting their head out of the window while in the car. This gives them a whiff of fresh air and makes them feel like they’re connected to the outdoors.
So, make sure you open the window, even if it’s just for a little bit, jut to let some fresh air in. Avoid opening the window all the way as that may lead to harmful objects getting into the car and injure your pet.
It’s also important to make regular stops so both you and your pet can stretch your legs and fill your lungs with fresh air. Our dog will appreciate the opportunity to get a sniff and potty break so it can discover the new exciting areas you drive through.
Relieve Stress
Transform your car into a happy place for your dog by putting some of its favorite toys and treats in there. This will make your dog feel more comfortable and willing to relax throughout the ride.
It’ll also take its mind off the prospect of going to the vet or any other expectation it has from being in the car. Doing this regularly will condition your dog to associate car rides with fun times. Also, don’t be shy to shower your pooch with praise and encouragement for being good.
Let Your Dog Enjoy The View
Dogs love looking out the window and seeing the world pass by when they’re in the car. While smaller pups may not be able to enjoy this view, it’s essential to make sure larger dogs are securely placed in their seat so they can enjoy the view without straining their neck or back.
A comfy dog car seat will come in handy here, as well as an appropriate restraint. You may also invest in a dog crate or puppy barrier to keep your dog safe while they observe the outdoor scenery from the window.
The most important thing is to keep your dog as comfortable as possible while you’re driving so you can pay attention to the road instead of constantly worrying about your pet.
Car Travel with Dogs: 6 Tips for Safety & Security
Are you taking your dog on a road trip or driving down with it to the local grocery shop? It's important to make sure that your canine buddy is securely fastened in its seat before you pull out of the driveway. Unfortunately, most dog owners don't take such safety measures because they think dogs can take care of themselves.
The truth is that having your dog in your car is similar to traveling with your kids. You must always check that your pet is safely secured in its seat for its and your safety as well. Here's our tips on how to travel safely and comfortably with your dog.
Choose The Right Vehicle
Make sure to pick a vehicle that'll keep both you and your pet comfortable and safe during your journey. While it's easy to travel with small sized dogs and cats, large breed dogs need a little more space.
Small vehicles like convertibles and smart cars are out of the question because you need a spacious back seat or cabin to accommodate your pet comfortably without the possibility of being affected by an airbag.
Take Breaks Often
If you're going to travel for long distances with your dog, it's essential to take frequent pitstops along the journey. This lets your pup relieve itself and stretch its legs.
Taking regular stops along the way will also give you a break you need to freshen up and stay awake. Make sure to leave the house early so that you're comfortable with taking frequent stops along the way to accommodate your pet.
Use A Dog Car Seat
Regular car seats are designed for humans and can be uncomfortable for pets, especially when traveling a long distance. That's why pet owners are advised to invest in a dedicated dog car seat. This will make it easier for you to secure your dog and keep it comfortable.
Know Pet Travel Laws
Generally, most pet owners are unaware that there are specific pet travel regulations that you need to observe depending on your state or region. That's why it's important to do your research on the area that you'll be traveling to, so that you wouldn't unknowingly break the law while there. Keep in mind that you must adhere to beach and park access laws as well as leash laws of the region that you're traveling to.
Do A Test Drive
As you plan for your journey take your dog for a test drive to see what it's going to be like when you go on the trip. Take your dog on a drive around the block and watch their reaction.
If you see that your pet is jittery and uncomfortable every time you drive them around in the car, a change of plans might be in order. Perhaps you can arrange for a pet sitter or a trusted friend to look after it while you're away.
Pack Snacks And Water
Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and water to keep your dog hydrated and satiated during your trip. If you don't bring enough snacks, you could find yourself dealing with an irritable and prickly pet. Plus, bringing your food will help you avoid potential allergies and other reactions that your dog may have to new and unusual food.
A word of caution, though.
NEVER allow your pet to eat or drink while you're driving. You should always stop the car first and get comfortable. Then, eat and drink as you would at home so that the food digests properly, and this will help you avoid the possibility of motion sickness as well.
4 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Put Your Dog In Your Car Front Seat
Like most dog owners, you probably see your pet as a part of your family, so it makes sense to pop it into the front seat sometimes, especially when you’re going for a quick drive.
In fact, you may have seen plenty of dog owners who travel with their pets in the front seat, even though it’s not a good idea to do so. If you’re wondering why it’s a bad idea to place your dog in the front seat when you’re driving, read on to find out more.
Accidents Can Happen
Unfortunately, accidents can happen to anyone and at any time. Often, an event that lasts for a few seconds ,can have a lifelong effect on those affected. There are numerous cases of pets that die or suffer permanent injuries from car accidents that could’ve been avoided by observing proper safety protocol.
It may not seem like much to keep your pet in the front seat while driving, but this places your pooch at risk of getting fatally injured if a collision happens. In the worst case scenario, your pet could experience whiplash or even hit the dashboard during the accident, causing death or extreme injury.
You Can Get Distracted
Most dogs feel excited at the prospect of getting into the car because it’s typically followed by a trip to the beach or the dog park. This level of excitement can be a distraction to the driver if your pet is placed on the front passenger seat.
In addition to barking or moving around, your dog might place its head onto your lap or want to hide under your seat because they feel spooked. Or you might feel so excited from having your cute pup next to you that you’ll start petting it and take your eyes off the road.
Back Seats Are More Comfortable
Sitting in the front seat means your pet will have to sit upright, whereas the back seat allows it to sprawl out and even take a nap. That’s why it’s much better and more comfortable to place your dog in the backseat when driving. You can make the trip even more comfortable for your pet by using a dog car seat or dog harness.
The Airbags Can Do Serious Damage
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, kids under the age of 13 years aren’t allowed to ride in the front seat of the car. That’s because their height positions them in a way that makes the airbag a safety hazard in the unforeseen event of a collision or accident.
The American Veterinary Medical Association shares the same view with regards to keeping dogs and other pets in the car’s back seat instead of the front.
