When traveling in the car, whether it is a short drive around the block, a trip to the vet or a cross-country road trip, it is recommended to keep your pets occupied, safe and comfortable. As the weather gets warmer and summer begins, you’ll likely be traveling more often. This means it’s time to think about keeping pets safe in the car.

Pet Car Safety Products

Car Seat – The safest driving option is to use a car seat that is designed for your pet and fits the pet’s size. A dog car seat is comfortable, and it includes a belt that attaches it to the car as well as a seat belt for your pet’s safety. While driving, the dog or cat will not will not be able to distract you. In case of an emergency stop or an accident, he’ll stay safe in the chair. Materials, colors and size differ. The prices for car seats range between $57.00 and $209.00 for a car seat that can occupy two small pets.

Pet Carrier / Soft Crate – Standard crates and designer pet carriers are the second option. They should close tightly but remain easy to open and close. They should also be roomy enough for the pet to stand or lie down. The reason for using a crate in the car is to minimize any potential distractions or to keep your pet from roaming around. You can also place his favorite toy or blanket in the carrier to make him feel good. The items in our pet crate collection start at just $54.99.

Both In One – If you travel often, an economical and space-saving decision would be a carrier or stroller that also functions as a car seat. Two-in-one carriers start at $73.80. See our all-in-one pet car seat carriers for more information.

Safety Harness – A pet safety harness allows your dog or cat to sit or lay down on the car seat while safely secured by the vehicle’s seat belt. These are often padded for maximum comfort. Some harnesses are good for walking too. They’re available in red, black, brown or beige, and the price starts at $22.99 depending on the pet size and manufacturer.

Car Seat Covers – These covers protect your car seats from fur and dirt that your pet might have picked up along the way. They are easy to install and clean. There are covers for SUVs, rear seats and the front seat. The pet car seat covers also come in hammock style. You have your choice of colors, prints and materials. They start at $54.99.

Car Safety Barriers – If your dog or cat tries to jump towards you from the back seat, you may find a pet car barrier helpful. Barriers are made of steel or mesh so that the pet can see you and you can see him. Door guard shields are also available for preventing the car door from getting scratched. They start at $39.00.

Pet Ramps – Simply getting into a vehicle is an important part of keeping pets safe in the car. Pet ramps are perfect for elderly pets, disabled pets, large pets that cannot be lifted, or pets that are too tiny to jump into the car. In addition, they save the pet owner the backbreaking work of lifting their pets. They are light, foldable and portable for use at home or outside. Different sizes include 42″ 66″ and 71″ when fully open. These start at $84.00

Food/Drink and Bowls – When you are on a long trip, always bring a good amount of food, treats and water. There are many designer dog bowls that are specifically intended for travel. For added convenience, you might want to get a Lookout Travel Rack, which allows your pet to have food and water while on the go.

Additional Pet Safety Tips

• Keep collars and tags on your pets throughout the whole trip. There is always a chance of your pet running off in an unfamiliar location.
• Never leave your pet in the vehicle unattended. Pets can die from heat exhaustion in a short time in hot weather, even if you park in shade. If you have an emergency and need to leave the car, take your pet with you.
• Plan enough time for frequent breaks while traveling in the car. Pets need their regular “outside time” even during road trips.

For all of our travel-related pet boutique accessories, please visit 4-legged.com.