How to keep it in the car
Without further ado, let’s get straight to the point. Keeping a dog in the car is neither simple nor obvious, so some precautions must be taken. The dog must be restrained, because no one can be sure that he can move freely. For example, it’s helpful to have a carrier for long journeys or if he’s not a big fan of cars, which make him nervous. A carrier is the ideal solution to this problem, because it allows you to concentrate on driving without worrying about your pet , safe in his carrier in the event of an unexpected event, such as a sudden stop.
However, if he’s endearing to you and you don’t feel like leaving him locked up in there, try tying him up. For example, if you have a large, spacious car, use the trunk with a separating grill to prevent him from jumping onto the back seats and consequently onto the front seats, which poses significant risks for everyone. Make the trunk comfortable, for example, by placing a dog bed, blankets, and some toys . Don’t leave heavy objects, including bowls or bottles, in there, because in an accident they could be deadly and fatal. Eventually, dogs fall asleep in cars to deal with motion sickness.
Did you know there are seats specifically designed for dogs? They’re not as safe as carriers, but they still provide a little safety and more comfort than a car seat, especially on hairpin bends or when you need to slow down quickly . The most common of these is a bucket seat, which attaches to the back of the front seat and is placed on the back seat, creating a sort of well to hold the dog, even when he needs to do his business. You can make one yourself with blankets without buying one. Buying one, however, isn’t very expensive. Never forget the seat belts, especially in small cars and tight spaces . Secure your dog with a harness, not a collar: you can insert the buckle into the car seat belt hooks to avoid damaging his neck in case of emergency.
Making the most of the pet carrier
When you opt for a carrier, secure it securely, ensuring it won’t move in the event of sudden braking or a collision, whether immediate or inadvertent . If you don’t secure it properly, the carrier becomes just as dangerous as when the dog is unrestrained in the passenger compartment. In fact, it’s even more dangerous. Let’s look at some precautions.
Place him in the crate, after showing it to him as something positive . Let him get to know it a little, let him smell it and interact with it. He’ll quickly get used to it. Then place the crate in the car and let the dog get in, leaving you away for a bit. Help him with treats inside, but don’t force him to get in . Before “locking him” in the car, however, pull him out with games and plenty of physical activity, so he’ll be less reluctant to get in. And also, don’t feed him just before the trip. Feed him several hours before departure so he doesn’t vomit. Remember to talk to your vet if you suspect or know your dog suffers from car sickness: he will certainly advise against medications like Xamamine, or those containing dimenhydrinate.
The long journeys
Don’t rush, but let your dog gradually get used to car travel . With the engine off, let him run around inside the vehicle, and then take him on short trips with you (even a simple trip to another city) so he learns to feel comfortable in the car . Make his trips enjoyable, and associate the car with something fun: so not a trip to the vet, but a trip to a nearby park by car but a walk away. (Whatever the duration, always give him an ID tag so you can track and identify him if he escapes. A microchip is best for this.)
When you’re on a long trip, schedule breaks. Your dog can wander around a bit and get tired or re-tired. These opportunities also serve to refresh and feed him a little. It’s common to stop every hour or hour and a half, even just to let him stretch his legs on some grass—even the somewhat drab flowerbeds at service stations—so he can satisfy all his physiological needs. Walks are always sacred for dogs, because they keep them from getting bored and, more importantly, they relax their nerves and make them less nervous. If you really don’t want to extend the journey that much, know that the maximum number of hours a dog can tolerate on a trip is four, so if the trip lasts even longer than that, after three and a half hours you’ll practically be forced to stop. Of course, if you stop on the highway, you must keep him on a leash.
It’s important to always take care of your dog in all weather conditions. For example, don’t leave him in the car when it’s very hot, especially because these animals suffer from heatstroke very quickly, and the heat in a car could quickly prove fatal. So don’t leave him inside even for a moment. When you take breaks, park the car in the shade with the windows open so that air can circulate . While the car is parked, place a bowl of fresh water in the vehicle and untie your dog from the carrier or seatbelt. Keep the doors locked, and perhaps order some food to go.
However, if you can’t find a shaded spot, don’t spend more than five minutes away from the car in hot weather , so your pet won’t suffer too much. However, if you know you’ll be out of the car for a long time, perhaps because there’s a long line at the restaurant where you stopped for lunch, tie your four-legged friend up outside the restaurant, just outside the door, making sure to stay in his line of sight. This is a good way to avoid leaving him unattended while he waits for you. To prevent him from escaping, tie a double knot (also because this prevents someone from grabbing him and carrying him away).
Comfort and reward
It’s true that it’s natural to comfort them if they’re upset, but in reality, doing so will only confirm their fear that something bad or dangerous is happening. Instead, stay calm and behave normally, trying to determine whether they’re just a little uncomfortable or if something is truly upsetting, unnerving, or distressing them.
Finally, reward your dog when you arrive. As soon as you get off the plane, it’ll be fun to go for a long walk, giving him some treats, showering him with cuddles and compliments , and above all, playing with him a lot. Your trips will be even more exciting with your puppy by your side; just follow these tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and stays safe.
