Unless you are lucky enough to live out in the countryside with lots of private grounds you will have to travel to get your dog to a space open enough to give it a good run. Of course if you are in walking distance of a dog friendly park you can simply pop on a lead and go, but for many dog owners living in a busy town centre or city, a daily car journey is a necessity.
It is important that your dog is safe and comfortable during any length of car journey. This is a list of dog travel accessories
Dog Safety
Dog travel cages or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Imagine how frightening it might be to your dog looking out the windows of a moving car!
If there is no room for a cage or if your dog travels in different cars consider buying a dog harness with seat belt adaptor. This is a great multi purpose accessory!
Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. If unsecured, your frightened dog could easily jump out of a car and run right onto a busy road.
Dog Comfort
A car boot isn’t designed to be comfortable so if your pet has to travel in the boot a dog bed is much nicer to sleep on.
It is also a good idea to keep a dog blanket in your car especially if you are planning a long journey in the colder months. (Keep a blanket for yourself too in case of break downs!)
Food and Water
Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. It is essental to keep water handy and for the bowl, consider disposable or re-usable material travel bowls that fold up neatly instead of the standard bowls that are bulky and take up more space.
Tip: Your car engine might need water too! Keep a supply of water in your car for both dog and car engine especially during the hotter months. Large plastic milk or juice bottles are ideal for this. You can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream if out in the countryside.
Shade from the sun
Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don’t forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.
Tip: If you also have children you may already have car window shades that are just as suitable for your pet!
Dog Ramps
A dog car ramp can be a godsend! You can lift smaller dogs into the car but what if you have had a particularly muddy run or if you have an older heavier dog that can’t jump up? You can choose from a number of dog car ramps that will fold away neatly when not in use.
Pet First Aid
As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. When you are out in the middle of nowhere and your dog gets a nasty cut the first aid you are able to provide can be vital in its recovery. Pet first aid kits usually come with bandages, gauzes and sterile wipes and are small enough for your glove compartment.
For more dog and pet products please visit swellpets.co.uk
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