Keeping your pet safe while travelling

THE weather may have cooled a little, but don’t become lulled into a false sense of security if your taking your dog for a drive, even a short one.

SKODA and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have come up with a list of things that drivers can do this summer to ensure their pets are safe while travelling, no matter what the distance:

• Never leave your dog alone in the vehicle so they don’t get anxious or overheat

• In hot weather, always leave the window slightly open when driving to provide fresh air for your dog. Summer can be a very dangerous time for dogs on their travels

• Always carry food and water with you to keep your dog hydrated

• Invest in appropriate pet restraints, such as a pet barrier or seat belt, to ensure your

dog remains in the back of the car throughout your journey

• On long journeys and hot days, take regular breaks to provide water for your dog

• Where possible exercise your dog with a short walk during your breaks

• When the vehicle is moving, don’t let a dog hang its head outside car windows, no matter how much they enjoy it!

• Before embarking on a long journey, take your dog on short journeys to get them used to travelling in the car

• Keep a close eye on your pet when travelling to make sure they are not showing signs of travel-related problems such as barking, whining, jumping, salivating, vomiting, cowering or restlessness

• If your dog is nervous when travelling use reward-based

training methods. If you continue to have problems visit your vet or a clinical animal behaviourist

• Make sure there aren’t any loose items that could harm your dog in the boot or on the back seat of your car

• Bring their favourite blanket or toy to help relax your dog

• Dogs travel better without a full stomach so it’s best to feed them more than two hours before you set off

• Travelling crates, dog guards and car harnesses safely secure your pet when travelling. Ensure that the crate is big enough for your dog and is positioned somewhere with good airflow so they don’t get too hot

If you see a dog in a car on a warm day and are concerned for his/her welfare please alert the gardai.