Kentish Express Ashford & District
Care for your canine in the car
Ensuring your dog is both safe and legal is paramount when taking them out in the car
Dog ownership has rocketed in recent months, with more and more people choosing to get their own pet during the lockdowns. But with dog ownership comes the need to, on occasion, transport them elsewhere – which means you might need to take them in the car.
There are many ways you can make the journey as smooth – and safe – as possible for both dog and owner, as well as any other passengers coming along for the ride. We spoke to dog welfare charity Dogs Trust to see what people can do to ensure that their fourlegged friends are both safe and comfortable when out and about in the car.
“When lockdown restrictions lift, one of the things dog owners may be looking forward to is a road trip with their canine companion, to go somewhere further afield for walkies,” a charity spokesperson said.
“Not all dogs love travelling in the car, so please be aware of this before embarking on a trip. If you’re unsure, avoid journeys while you seek the guidance of an experienced behaviourist. If you know your four-legged friend enjoys a car ride, it’s important to make sure they are safe, comfortable and feel confident.”
Dogs Trust also advises that should you see a distressed dog in a vehicle, always call 999.
KEEP THINGS SECURE
The Highway Code stipulates that dogs need to be properly restrained in the vehicle. It means that dogs should be kept in a properly-fitting seatbelt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or in the boot behind a dog guard. They’ve got to be securely fitted, too, to ensure that your dog can’t get loose and interfere with whoever is behind the wheel. Many car companies offer their own dedicated dog accessories, such as those for Land Rover’s Discovery Sport. It’s always worth checking to see if there’s a bespoke option for your car, as it could make elements such as installing and using them a bit easier.
DON’T LEAVE THEM ALONE
Though it might be tempting to leave your dog in the car if you’re quickly dashing in somewhere, it’s something that should definitely be avoided. Leaving your dog unattended in the vehicle increases the risk of them being stolen, so you should always take them with you if you can. If you’re filling up with fuel, then ensure you lock the vehicle when you pay, or ask a passenger to take them on a quick walk in the meantime.
KEEP THEM COOL
You should make sure that you keep your dog cool when travelling. Keeping non-spill water bowls to hand can help, as can factoring in short walks or exercise breaks during the journey. Try to avoid travelling during the hottest part of the day, and consider fitting window blinds to keep the car’s cabin as cool as can be. And remember, never leave your pet alone in the car on a hot day. They can be very vulnerable to the heat, and sadly pets do die in hot cars often far more than people realise.
STAY CALM
Dogs Trust says it’s important to keep your dog calm and ensure that it is paying attention to you before they get in or out of the car. Allowing your dog to exit the vehicle immediately after you stop could cause them to expect this each time you come to a halt, which could prove to be dangerous in the long run. Dogs should ideally be taught to wait for you to attach their lead properly before being allowed to carefully exit the car.
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
For many dogs, travelling in a car can prove challenging. After all, it’s a new and somewhat scary environment for many.
It’s why drivers should try and help their dogs to become familiar with car rides by undertaking several shorter trips first, before setting out on a longer one. By doing so, you’ll be able to reward them for being calm in the car, or even for just being near the vehicle.
TAKE SUPPLIES
It’s worthwhile keeping a supply of your dog’s usual food in the car. It means that, should you get stuck in traffic, you’re not left high and dry with a hungry hound.
KEEP A LEAD AT HAND
Ensure you keep your dog’s harness and lead close to the hand when you’re driving, just in case you need to quickly exit the car in the event of an emergency.