If your pooch is one of our doggy daycare regulars, you’ve experienced this scenario many times before: You say the words “Hounds Lounge,” and Fido is rushing to the door, ready to leap into the car. Once you’ve got your dog in the car, they’re full of energy with their tail wagging – they’re going to their favorite place ever!
Ready to Experience Hounds Lounge for Yourself?
Because car rides are how most of our happy campers get to and from Hounds Lounge – and with summer road trips, park days and lake weekends on the horizon – we wanted to share the basics of dog car safety for anyone who might need a refresher. Having your dog in the car doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are certain crucial protocols we urge you to follow. Buckle up and keep reading for safety tips, Arkansas-specific travel prep and comfort hacks.
The Basics of Dog Care Safety – Without the Boring Lecture
Let’s be fur real: Most people have made mistakes driving with their dog in the car. The goal of this blog is not to criticize or force perfection, but instead to help readers make safer choices every ride. Let’s get into it!
Where Should Dogs Sit in the Car?
Dogs should sit in the backseat of the car. They can also travel in the cargo area of an SUV.
Impawtant Note: When your pooch is in the car, keep your windows rolled up or barely cracked. This not only protects your dog from trying to jump out – or falling out – but also prevents any debris from blowing into their eyes.
Can My Dog Ride Loose?
No, your dog cannot ride loose. An unsecured dog in the car is dangerous to you, other drivers and, not to mention, themself.
How Do I Secure My Dog in the Car?
There are a variety of doable safety upgrades you can implement! One of the easiest and most affordable options is getting a crash-tested car safety harness that attaches to your seat belt or headrest. These keep dogs in place and sitting in an upright position, which is safer than laying down. To take things a step furrther, there are even dog car seats!
If your dog needs to ride in the cargo area of an SUV, they should be in a carrier or crate. Tie down the crate to keep it from moving around. If you don’t already have one, you’ll eventually need to upgrade to a crash-tested carrier or crate for optimal safety!
Additionally, you can get a vehicle pet barrier for the backseat or the cargo area. These barriers prevent your pooch from climbing to the front seat – or being thrust forward in the event of an accident. Barriers come in a variety of sizes and materials, with many budget-friendly options.
Can I Leave My Dog Alone in the Car?
No, you cannot leave your dog alone in the car. With the risks of your dog overheating or being stolen, even just a quick errand can become disastrous. If there’s any chance your pooch will have to stay in the car alone during an outing, choose to leave them at home instead.
How Should My Dog Exit the Car?
Always leash your dog while they are still in the car so they can’t run away from you. Additionally, teach your dog a verbal release cue so they will jump out of the car on command after you leash them.
The Local Angle: Taking Your Dog in the Car in Arkansas
Many Arkansans drive trucks, and dog safety looks different in a pickup bed. While we see it all the time, we can’t emphasize it enough: Do not let your dog ride loose in a truck bed! Instead, get a crash-tested crate and secure it in place. This is the only safe way for a dog to ride in the back of a truck.
Arkansas is a smaller state, so there are many opportunities for weekend road trips or even day trips you can enjoy with your pooch. A few local, dog-friendly places to consider visiting are Hot Springs, the Buffalo River or Mount Magazine. Get tips for camping or hitting the water with your pooch!
Car Comfort Hacks for Happy Dogs – And Less Stress for You
Try out some of this expert advice and experience smooth sailing – or, in this case, driving.
Pack the Essentials
Anytime you take your dog in the car, you’re going to need a few essential items: a water bowl (a collapsible one is a good option for the car), water and a leash. It’s also a good idea to have a dog first aid kit in the car too. If you’re going on a longer road trip, you’ll need to bring a few more items. Check out our packing list in our guide to taking your dog on vacation.
Keep Your Backseat Clean
Sometimes, having your dog in the car can get a little hairy… literally. Luckily, you can get car seat covers to put over your backseat to protect your leather or upholstery. You may also invest in plastic floor mats, which are easier to clean than carpet.
To furrther reduce shedding in the car, get your pooch groomed at Hounds Lounge!
Reduce Car Anxiety in Dogs
While most of our Hounds Lounge guests get excited for their drive to doggy daycare, we know there are some pooches out there who are anxious travelers. Some signs of car anxiety are:
- Refusal to get in the car
- Panting or excessive drooling
- Pacing or restlessness in the car
- Trembling or shaking
- Whining, barking or howling
You can help your dog feel more comfortable by letting them explore the car when it’s not moving, gradually increasing time in the car. You can also take them on short rides to positive destinations, like the dog park or Hounds Lounge! Gradually increase the length of car rides.
Additionally, you can play soothing music, bring along toys or create a comfy spot in the car to relieve your dog’s anxiety. If you’re going for a longer car ride, try to tire out your dog with play time before they ever set paw in the vehicle.
Safe Travels, Happy Tails
Dog car safety is very important and very easy to implement! It’s worth taking a few extra steps to ensure you, your pooch and other drivers are protected. If you have any additional questions about having your dog in the car, give the Hounds Lounge team a call.
