If you love to travel with your dog, your vehicle choice will have a large impact on their comfort and safety. Once you have a seatbelt harness that fits your dog well, consider the tips below.
1. Headroom
When it’s time to choose a car for your dog, consider your dog’s height when seated. They may want to look out the window; they will at least need enough headroom to try. If your dog is taller than you when you both sit on the sofa, consider that as you look around the dealership.
2. Upholstery
Absorbent fabrics will pick up dirt and moisture from your dog’s paws. Unless you have a hatchback, vinyl or leather seats, preferably with a durable cover that doesn’t slide around, are best.
3. Color
A dark car soaks up sunlight and stays hot. If you’re taking your dog to the park for the day and your car sits in the sun, it will be miserable for you to enter the vehicle. It may be dangerous, even for a short time, to put your dog in a very hot car.
4. Remote Start
With a remote start, you can warm up a cold car or cool things down with air conditioning. For small dogs or those with very short coats, cold can be miserable. Any overheated dog may be at risk. Getting remote start added to your vehicle is a wise choice.
5. Locking Mechanisms
Always make sure that you have a key fob on your body when you’re headed out with your dog for the day. They can easily step on or bump an electric lock and lock you out of the car. When your dog travels in the back seat, make sure that window and door locks are secured, such as with a child safety lock setting.
6. Window Tints
If you must park outside, consider getting UV reflective window tints added to keep the car as cool as possible before you load your dog up. A hot car means hot surfaces, from seats to the rubber base in your hatchback. Because dogs cool themselves by laying tummy down on a cool surface, keeping the surfaces inside your car as cool as possible is critical.
7. Crate Space
Securing a crate in a vehicle may be the best way to keep your dog comfortable. To get your dog accustomed to a car crate, consider asking someone else to drive so you can stay in the rear seat and monitor your dog. Make sure that every outing includes a treat or some fun. For example, keep treats in the car and reward them for getting into the crate, laying down in the crate, and patiently waiting to be let out of the car.
The right vehicle can make traveling with your dog a simple and safe option. Give them plenty of room and a comfortable spot to sit or lie down. Be willing to spend a bit more on your vehicle if it means your dog can learn to love traveling. Choosing the appropriate vehicle for traveling with your dog can significantly enhance comfort and safety for both you and your furry companion.