Pet Safety in Cars

Studies have shown that the average American spends nearly 20 hours a week in an automobile.  Frequently, our pets are traveling right along with us.  While we have airbags for protection and usually use seat belts, what about our pets?  In the event of a collision, they frequently are catapulted across the vehicle, slamming into a door or window as loose objects.  Sadly, under the law in most states, a pet is considered personal property, and an injured pet is simply damaged personal property.  We all know that pets are worth much more to us than that, and we should take steps to keep them protected while riding in an automobile.

There are several good ways to keep your furry friend restrained and safe on the road. 

The simplest way to secure them is with a crate.  In particular, cats and small dogs should be kept in pet carriers whenever possible.  These are most effective at keeping pets safe when tied down with a seatbelt, and should be kept in the backseat. This avoids the risk of a front seat airbag injuring your pet in the event of an accident.  For larger dogs, a crate may be too bulky or otherwise impractical.  If this is the case, one good option might be a restraint system.  There are several types available including harnesses that attach to a car’s seatbelt or straps you can install on the ceiling of the car.  It’s important to find the safety device that’s right for you and your pet, and give the animal some time to get accustomed to it before taking it on the road. 

It’s also important to keep your pet calm and happy while riding.  Bringing along toys and blankets for comfort is often a good idea, as is a portable water bowl.  Avoid feeding your pet while traveling or just before a trip.  Just like people, pets can get motion sickness travelling on a full stomach. 

Finally, as fun as it seems to let your dog lean his head out the window; doing so can be dangerous if your pet is hit by flying objects.  Additionally, the wind and cold air can cause inner-ear damage and lung infections, and in the event of an accident the damage to your pet could be disastrous. Also, according to New Hampshire law, it is illegal for your dog to ride unrestrained in the bed of a pickup truck. 

Practicing good safety habits for yourself and your pet can seem a bit tedious at times.  But it is crucial to helping ensure that you and Fido both suffer as little injury as possible in an automobile accident.  Do everything you can to protect your pet, it’s the humane thing to do, and in New Hampshire, it’s the law.  

Articles contained here are not intended to provide legal advice, only providing general information. We encourage individuals to consult with an attorney regarding individual circumstances.