Dogs and Cars

Dogs and Cars

If you live near open fields and the countryside or have lots of private ground for your pet to run around in you won’t need to travel to give your dog opportunity to get plenty of excerise out in the open air. If there is a dog friendly park nearby within walking distance you need only pop on a lead but for some dog owners living in a city or busy town centre the only option is to travel by car.

It is important your dog feels comfortable and safe for necessary car journeys of any length. This is a list of car accessories for dogs

Dog Safety

Dog travel crates or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Imagine how frightening it might be to your dog looking out the windows of a moving car!

If there is no room for a cage or if your dog travels in different cars consider buying a dog harness with seat belt adaptor. This is a great multi purpose travel accessory for your dog!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. Your frightened dog if unsecured will instinctively want to get out of the car and possibly run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

The boot of a car is not designed for comfort so if your pet has to travel in the boot dog beds are much nicer to sleep on.

If you are planning a long journey in the colder months a dog blanket would be a good idea too. (Keep a blanket for yourself too in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. Keeping water and a bowl is a must but instead of the bulky hard bowls consider investing in those special dog travel bowls made of material that fold up when not in use, you can also get disposable travel bowls.

Handy hint: The car engine might need water too! The larger empty milk cartons are ideal for keeping a supply of water handy for both dog and car during the hotter months. If you are out in the country you can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don’t forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Tip: If you also have children you may already have car window shades that are just as suitable for your pet!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! You can lift smaller dogs into the car but what if you have had a particularly muddy run or if you have an older heavier dog that can’t jump up? A number of dog ramps for cars are available that fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. The first aid you apply to your dog if it gets a nasty cut will be vital in its recovery and if you are out in the middle of nowhere it could be a while before you can get your dog to a vet. Pet first aid kits usually come with bandages, gauzes and sterile wipes and are small enough for your glove compartment.

Swellpets.co.uk has many more great products for dogs.