Keeping Your Dog Safe in Your Car

With summer here, dog owners know that they need to refrain from keeping their dogs in the car too long. The hot Texas heat can easily cause a dog inside a car to overheat. But there’s another car safety issue you need to keep in mind: restraining your dog.

Many people put their dogs inside their cars without a second thought. They may let them in the back seat unrestrained. They may even put them in the front seat or allow them to hang partially out the window.

These are all dangerous moves. Dogs need to be restrained while in a vehicle, just like your children do. You wouldn’t let your toddler hang out in the back seat without a car seat, so why would you let your beloved dog do that?

Practicing dog safety in the car is important for both you and your pup. Not only can unrestrained pets get injured in car accidents, but they can even cause the crashes themselves. Your dog may try to climb up into the front seat and distract you. They may be pacing back and forth in the back, causing concern, especially if you have to slam on your brakes.

There are other things to consider. If your dog is in the front seat and you get into an accident, they could hit the dashboard or the windshield. Also, if the airbag deploys, they could be crushed. In any case, having an unrestrained dog is unsafe and could cause them to become injured.

Safety Options

You can keep your dog safe in your vehicle by keeping them restrained in the back seat, if possible. The back seat is the safest place for your pup because crumple zones absorb the impact in the front and cargo areas. Here are some safety options:

• Seat belt. The best way to restrain your dog in the car is with a seat belt. The harness secures your dog in one position, since the strap plugs into the seat belt. Just be sure to watch your dog to make sure​ they don’t chew through the harness.
• A crate ensures that your dog is safe, comfortable, and secure. Make sure​ the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up ​in.
• Dog guard. A dog guard is a good option for dogs who like to see you and move around​. It prevents your dog from being thrown forward in the event of an accident. Make sure​ to get a guard that bolts to the floor and roof of your car.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

How you keep your dog secured in your vehicle may not seem important, but it can prevent accidents as well as keep your canine friend safe should a crash occur.

A Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can assist you if you have been injured in a crash. Whether your dog caused it or someone else did, we can help you get back on the road quickly. To schedule a consultation, call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form.

Source:

thewildest.com/dog-lifestyle/7-ways-secure-your-dog-car