It’s pretty common to see a dog or two bouncing around the back seat of a car or hanging out the window, ears flapping in the wind. But as much as your furry family member may enjoy car rides, the safest place for them—and you—in the car is securely strapped in a seat.
Pet car seats come in several different pet car seat styles, from carriers and bucket seats to harnesses that work with your car’s seat belt. Regardless of the type of in-car dog restraint you choose, though, it’s important to make sure your pet is buckled up for every trip. Here are the top reasons to restrain your dog or cat in the car.
3 Reasons To Use a Pet Car Seat:
Cat or dog car restraints keep your furry friend–and everyone else in the car–safe while you travel.Driving with an unrestrained pet is dangerous not only for them, but for everyone on the road. Here’s why:
1. It’s distracting.
As fun as it is to travel with a furry sidekick, unrestrained pets can be pretty distracting. It’s difficult to give the road your full attention while your dog is jumping from front to back seat, barking at passersby or a cat is climbing into your lap. Instead, play it safe. Save the belly rubs for home and keep your pet safely buckled in the back seat.
2. It’s dangerous.
Our pets aren’t just pets—they’re family members. We restrain our children to keep them safe; our pets should be buckled up too! Unless your cat or dog is securely strapped in a pet car seat or restraint, he could seriously injure himself—and others— in an accident or hard stop. And just like small children, a deployed airbag could be fatal to your furry family member.
3. It’s against the law.
Many states actually have laws against driving with an unrestrained pet. In New Jersey and Rhode Island, for example, you face hefty fines if your dog isn’t buckled up. In many other states, you could be charged for violating distracted driving or animal welfare laws. Even if you aren’t cited for transporting an unsecured pet, your insurance company could deny your claim in the event of an accident. If they determine your pet played a part in the cause of the accident, your insurance may refuse to payout. Next time you hit the road with your pet, make sure to strap them in a pet car seat or harness so everyone can travel safely as you go. Ready to choose a seat for your pet that’ll keep him both comfortable and safe?
Learn more about how to pick a pet car seat.
