PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “Being able to take your pet with you on holiday is a wonderful experience, but ensuring they are safe and comfortable when travelling is essential. Long car journeys can be taxing for everyone at the best of times, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your pet is happy and safe.
Making car travel more comfortable for your pet
“Ideally, it’s best for dogs to get accustomed to being in a car from a young age, so they feel more at ease during longer journeys. Start with short trips initially, and end your drive with a reward such as a healthy treat, a walk, or some play time. Before you set out, give your pooch a chance to have a drink and stretch their legs – after all, being cooped up in a car for too long isn’t comfortable for anyone. Make sure you plan plenty of stops into your journey for your dog to go to the toilet and have a drink.
“Cars can quickly reach sweltering temperatures on warmer days, so consider leaving early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Try to make the car as cool as possible – sun shades and cooling mats are a good idea. Remember to check the temperature in the back of the car – although most cars have great air conditioning for the front seats, the back seat or boot can heat up very quickly and become dangerously warm for your pet. You can even get non-spill water bowls to keep your pet hydrated during your trip. As tempting as it may be, avoid letting your furry friend stick their head out of the window while driving, as it’s dangerous to themselves and to other drivers.
Strapped in safe
“Though we’re all very used to wearing a seatbelt ourselves, most of us don’t realise that our dogs shouldn’t be loose inside a car, even if we’re holding them. As well as increasing the risk of injury to themselves, unrestrained dogs could potentially distract the driver and lead to an accident, so it’s important for the safety of you and your passengers too.
“The Highway Code states that drivers must “make sure dogs and other animals are suitably restrained” in the car, so if you are involved in a car crash due to being distracted by your pet, this could be perceived as dangerous driving, and may invalidate your car insurance. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to buy special pet seatbelts, harnesses, and carriers to keep your furry friend safe and secure.
Have a look at our pet travel range on the PDSA Pet Store here: travel – PDSA Pet Store.
Car sickness
“Car sickness in pets is thought to be caused when certain types of movement affect the part of the brain responsible for balance, combined with some of the anxiety and stress that may come with travelling. Building up gradually to longer trips will help your pet get used to the motion and help to avoid them getting sick. Avoid feeding them right before a car ride, but if they get carsick even on an empty stomach, talk to your vet to see if they can have medication to settle their tummy.
“Just like humans, dogs might feel less nauseous if they face forward while you’re travelling, rather than looking out the side windows – sun shades can help block their view. Some people prefer to use crates for safety and they do have the added benefit of containing vomit, should your dog become ill.”
PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets.
For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn.
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