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In Minnesota, it\u2019s \u201cClick It or Ticket,\u201d so we know to buckle up as soon as we get into the car. We also know that our car has seatbelts and airbags to keep us safe. But how can we keep our pets safe in the car?<\/p>\n
First off, never, ever let an animal go loose in your car. For cats, use a carrier that is the right size for your cat. For small animals, use a transportable cage or a small carrier. If you are rescuing an animal such as an injured bird or baby raccoon, use a carrier or cage to transport the animal to an emergency clinic or wildlife rescue rehabilitation center. Many people put a wild animal in a cardboard box, and they just use the four flaps to close the box. The scared, confused animal will try to get out. If that animal gets out, you risk being injured or getting into a car accident.<\/p>\n
What about dogs–especially large dogs? They tend to lie down in the backseat or sit in the passenger seat. This means a loose, unsecured animal is in your car. Is this safe? NO! You need to be buckled for a reason. Same goes for your dog. You wouldn\u2019t let your baby just lie down in the backseat, so don\u2019t let your pet!<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re not convinced, let\u2019s think about a few scenarios\u2026
\n\u2022 You slam on the brakes.
\n\u2022 You get in a car accident.
\n\u2022 Your pet crashes into the dashboard, the back of the front seats, or even worse: through the windshield.
\n\u2022 Your pet might stick his\/her head out the window and get hit.
\n\u2022 A paw could accidentally open the window further and your dog might jump out.
\n\u2022 A paw could accidently close the window while your dog\u2019s \u00a0head is sticking out.
\n\u2022 Your dog might distract you by sitting in your lap, licking your face, or brushing up against you.
\n\u2022 Your dog might jump down to where the brake and gas pedals are.<\/p>\n
None of these scenarios end well if your pet isn’t properly restrained.<\/p>\n
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Use Center For Pet Safety<\/span><\/a>‘s guide to help select the safest vehicle restraint for your pet. This non-profit research and consumer advocacy organization looks at pet product safety. They’ve even released crash test results of car pet seats as well as seatbelts. View the crash test videos here<\/a>. View the products that Center For Pet Safety DOES recommend here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Go invest in something that will keep your furry family member SAFE! No matter what you choose, make sure it\u2019s the right size and fit for your pet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n![\"Janine](\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/BLOG-Author-Block-17.png\")
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