You’ve probably seen movies where people are driving along on a hot day while their dog sits happily in the front passenger seat, head out the window, catching the breeze. As idyllic as that looks, a dog loose in the car is problematic for several reasons.
Firstly, a fly, a bit of dust or grit could impact the dog’s eyes and cause them ocular damage. Let’s look at what else could occur.
The distraction factor
Some dogs are high-energy and excitable. They could be jumping and barking or yapping at every cat, squirrel, dog, person, cyclist or whatever it is that catches their attention. That can take your attention away from the road, especially if you look to see what they are barking at or try to get them to calm down. Even the calmest of dogs cannot be expected to sit in silence all the time.
The flying missile
Even if your dog is only a lapdog, it could do you or someone else in the vehicle serious damage if it were sent flying – which could happen if the dog is unsecured. This could be because you suddenly brake, someone hits you or you swerve hard to avoid something.
Increased chance of injury for the dog
Humans fare better in collisions when wearing seat belts. The same applies to dogs. Restricting the chance they are thrown forward, backward or sideways will reduce the chance they are injured or killed.
There are several options available to secure a dog in the car, from harnesses to transport cages. Even just putting them loose in the trunk with a guard between them and you is safer than having them next to you and loose.
The roads can be a dangerous place, so as hard as it may feel to keep your dog away from your side while driving, it is better for all concerned. If a collision occurs, understanding your compensation options may require legal guidance.