Anything Can Happen

Whether it's a quick trip around the block or hundreds of vacation miles, when a pet is your travel companion in the car, remember, “Anything Can Happen,” and you'll always be prepared.

by Jacki Brewster, Best Friends Network Volunteer

Anytime Fresno, a basset hound mix, heard the word “car,” her ears perked up and, very unbasset-like, she sprinted for the door. It was obvious she was saying, “Let's go!” Whether it was sixty miles or six, she was always ready to go. Some animals do like car rides, but have you considered the unexpected outcomes of taking your dog to the park, your cat to the clinic, or your parrot to the vet?

Recently, an accident occurred in Tunbridge, Vermont when a woman struck a parked car because she bent to tend to her sick cat. The woman had to be extracted from her car and suffered a broken leg. Both cars were destroyed. Poor Daphne, the cat, had quite an ordeal, which can be read on the Times Argus website. Fortunately, this time the story has a happy ending. This may not always be the case.

Do you have a dog like Fresno who loves to ride in the car? Is it possible your cat could have an experience like Daphne's? Then you need this basic advice on transporting your precious pet cargo.


Anything Can Happen

What if the airbags go off? What if Fido escapes from the car? What if Kitty gets spooked and scrambles under the brake pedal while you're driving? What if the car breaks down and you are all stuck waiting for a tow truck? These are just a few of the questions to keep in mind as you put together a “Pet Pack” that will carry everything you'll need to be prepared for anything. A Pet Pack can be left in the trunk of your car or easily grabbed on the way out the door. What you put in the Pet Pack depends on what kind of animal you have, what special needs they have, and your pet's personal favorites. Suggestions on what to include:

► Water bowl
► Bottled water (glass is healthier than plastic)
► Leash
► Photo of your pet, should s/he become lost
► Copy of pets' current license and vaccinations
► Nontoxic wet wipes
► Waste disposal bags
► Toys & blankets that are familiar and comfortable
► Treats or a small amount of dry food
► First Aid kit
► Your veterinarian's phone number

The only limit to what goes in your Pet Pack are the number of senarios you can imagine. Now, that you're prepared for anything, here are some basic safety tips to consider when taking your pet for a ride in the car.

Dogs

Regardless of size, dogs should always be restrained in the backseat of the car. Not only can dogs be a distraction to the driver when riding up front, but if the airbags were to go off, they could be deadly to your dog. A seat belt harness is perfect for large breeds and a booster seat can be used for smaller breeds. Both allow your dog to look out the window, but keep them safe during sudden stops and from hanging their head out the window where they may be injured by flying debris. Make sure your dog is wearing a current ID tag, just in case he escapes and becomes disoriented in an unfamiliar area.

While Vermont does not currently have a restraint law, some states do. Several Volvo dealerships nationwide are getting a jump on this trend and between June and September are participating in Bark Buckle Up. Visit the campaign website and find information on what can happen in an accident, available restraint devices, and how you can get a free Bark Buckle Up Pet Safety Kit.



Cats

Cats should always be crated when riding in the car. Not only could this prevent serious accidents, but cats feel more comfortable in the protection of a crate. Use a seat belt to secure the crate and prevent it from sliding forward during sudden stops. Before putting your cat in the crate, put a harness on her. This way, if she becomes skittish and tries to run when the crate door is opened, it will be much easier to grab her. Like dogs, make sure your cat is wearing a current ID tag. In addition to current tags, talk to your veterinarian about having a microchip implanted.

If you choose to take your cat on a longer road trip, consider a larger crate to make room for a litter box. Feeling bad about Kitty being cooped-up in the crate too long? Pull off the road and take a break. It is better to take frequent breaks than to let your cat roam through the car and possibly get under the driver's feet.



Birds

While most of us would not consider letting Polly fly free while in the car, there are other considerations as well. Small birds may be transported in their own cage, just make sure to remove all toys and swings to prevent injury. Cover the cage with a light blanket or sheet. This not only protects them from drafts, but helps them feel safe. Because birds are so sensitive to drafts, keep them away from air vents and keep the windows closed. Larger birds can be put in a crate, like the one you would use for your cat (though probably not at the same time!). Use newspaper to line the bottom of the crate to prevent slipping on the hard plastic bottom. Again, be prepared for sudden stops, and either use a seat belt to secure the cage on the seat, or put the cage on the floor of the car.

What You Can Do

As Deborah C. Mandell, VMD, DACVECC, pet expert for the American Red Cross suggests in Pets On the Go – 5 Tips for Traveling with Your Pet, put yourself in your pets' paws and ask yourself why are you taking them for a ride? The majority of pets generally prefer to stay safely at home in familiar surroundings. However, if there is an emergency, or you have a pet who likes to go for car rides, here is some additional advice:

In some states, including Vermont, it is illegal to leave your pet in an unattended car. For more information, read the Vermont Statutes online here. Remember, it only takes minutes for a car to become dangerously hot, so do not leave your pet in the car unattended. If you see a pet left unattended, try to find the owner immediately, and if necessary, notify local law enforcement.

In the unfortunate case of an accident, check your insurance policy. Pets are generally considered “personal property” and, if injured, their care may be covered. However, some insurance companies have exclusion clauses. Visit Insure.com for more information.

In some states it is illegal to allow dogs to ride in the back of a pick-up truck. Even if your state allows it, it is never a good idea. Not only may your dog be ejected from the vehicle, but they could also be seriously injured by flying debris.

There are a vast array of items available for travel, such as: booster seats, cargo liners, seat covers, metal pens, vinyl kennels, nylon crates, harnesses, leashes, etc. It can be fun to use an online search engine and look for specific items, or do a general search for “pet travel supplies” and see what you can find.

When planning a trip, take a look at the Bring Your Pet directory, for listings on pet-friendly lodging, restaurants, events, and more.

Whether transporting Kitty to the vet, or taking Fido for a Sunday drive, if you keep in mind that “Anything Can Happen,” you will always be prepared.


Posted by Jacki Brewster, Best Friends Network Volunteer
Photos found on sxc.hu