Saturday, September 1, 2007
Dogs and Cars
In the busy human world, automobiles have become a necessity for getting around. As a result, dogs have been literally taken along for the ride. People tote their puppies and dogs around to the park, the vet, and even the salon. With all of that moving around, sometimes the safety of Sparky is forgotten. Here are a few things to consider when mixing dogs and cars that will help make Sparky's trips more comfortable and safe.
The biggest issue in keeping your dog safe in an automobile is "containment." For children, their containment is a car seat, and for adults it is the actual seats. Dogs need a well ventilated, carrier space. Though your dog might think it enjoys sitting in the front with its head out the window, this can cause some serious health risks. By letting your dog hang its head out the window, you are putting it at risk for lung infections, inner ear damage, and most commonly, eye problems. There are so many things up in the air at any given time, plus the obvious risk of objects like tree limbs, fences, rocks, and more. Even if the window is up, the front seat is not a good spot. Front air bags can be fatal to pets or cause serious injury. The best section of the car for a dog is the back in a crate or dog car seat that is secured with a seatbelt or harness. You can find a variety of helpful gear for transporting your dog that will work well for whatever model car you own at many pet stores.
If you are planning a road trip with your dog, be prepared. Before you go, take several short trips to get your dog accustomed to this new device, if you have not already. Your dog needs to know that there is a final destination, and that this is not some kind of torture kennel they have been left in. Taking these drives will help your dog to recognize the motion, smells, and sights of cars. The motion of the car might also influence your dog's digestive system, so it is probably not a good idea to feed your dog right before jumping in the car. During a trip, feed your dog lighter, more frequent meals, and never feed them in the moving car.
Pit stops are essential. Dogs need at least as many stops as you do for the bathroom, so make sure you take Sparky for a walk every time you stop. You will be glad you did. While traveling, it is important to keep your dog on a leash with the property identification tags on its collar. Many people lose their pets on trips because they are far from home and it is difficult to find an owner that lives far away. You might also consider adding a tag that includes a cell phone or your final destination just in case.
Dog hydration is one more important thing to consider in the car. Cars are often less ventilated, making it difficult for dogs to stay cool. Make sure your dog has plenty of water available all the time, and never leave your dog in the car, especially in the sun. Heat exhaustion and stroke are not fun scenarios to deal with while traveling.
Most dogs love to go for rides, and by following these simple precautions, it can stay that way.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
The biggest issue in keeping your dog safe in an automobile is "containment." For children, their containment is a car seat, and for adults it is the actual seats. Dogs need a well ventilated, carrier space. Though your dog might think it enjoys sitting in the front with its head out the window, this can cause some serious health risks. By letting your dog hang its head out the window, you are putting it at risk for lung infections, inner ear damage, and most commonly, eye problems. There are so many things up in the air at any given time, plus the obvious risk of objects like tree limbs, fences, rocks, and more. Even if the window is up, the front seat is not a good spot. Front air bags can be fatal to pets or cause serious injury. The best section of the car for a dog is the back in a crate or dog car seat that is secured with a seatbelt or harness. You can find a variety of helpful gear for transporting your dog that will work well for whatever model car you own at many pet stores.
If you are planning a road trip with your dog, be prepared. Before you go, take several short trips to get your dog accustomed to this new device, if you have not already. Your dog needs to know that there is a final destination, and that this is not some kind of torture kennel they have been left in. Taking these drives will help your dog to recognize the motion, smells, and sights of cars. The motion of the car might also influence your dog's digestive system, so it is probably not a good idea to feed your dog right before jumping in the car. During a trip, feed your dog lighter, more frequent meals, and never feed them in the moving car.
Pit stops are essential. Dogs need at least as many stops as you do for the bathroom, so make sure you take Sparky for a walk every time you stop. You will be glad you did. While traveling, it is important to keep your dog on a leash with the property identification tags on its collar. Many people lose their pets on trips because they are far from home and it is difficult to find an owner that lives far away. You might also consider adding a tag that includes a cell phone or your final destination just in case.
Dog hydration is one more important thing to consider in the car. Cars are often less ventilated, making it difficult for dogs to stay cool. Make sure your dog has plenty of water available all the time, and never leave your dog in the car, especially in the sun. Heat exhaustion and stroke are not fun scenarios to deal with while traveling.
Most dogs love to go for rides, and by following these simple precautions, it can stay that way.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
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