Vehicle Safety for Pets in Elmhurst and Lombard, IL

Living in places like Elmhurst, and Lombard IL, driving is a necessity, and bringing your dog or cat along on car rides can be a very pleasant experience. There are things to keep in mind when driving with your pup, so we’re going to highlight some basic vehicle safety tips below.  

• Don’t let your dog stick their head out car windows; tiny stones, sticks or pieces of trash that get kicked up by other cars can hit them in the head or get in their eyes. Some dogs may even try to jump out of a car window if they can!
• More and more, it is recommended to provide restraints for your dog while riding with you in the car. This way if you’re in a car accident, or even a near-accident, the dog won’t be slammed into the back of the seat or even over it and into the windshield.
• Do not let your dog ride in your lap, as this can quickly become a distraction.  
• For long trips, it’s recommended that pets have a crate that’s big enough to stand, sit,and  lie down in, as large enough for them to turn around all the way. You’ll also need to bring water. It’s generally recommended that the crate is harnessed to the car. Remember to take time for potty breaks along the way.
• Regarding cats, you should keep a cat crated when they’re in the vehicle with you.  A loose cat in a car can quickly become a distraction and potential safety hazard.
• It is very important to never, ever leave your dog or cat in the car. It can get 20 degrees hotter than it is outside extremely quickly. Shade isn’t going to help you here, and neither is leaving the car window open. Your pet can overheat and potentially die if left in the car. Pets left in the car are also the #1 way pets are dog or catnapped.