Top 17+ Ways to Keep Pets Safe in the Car

Traveling with pets can transform an ordinary car ride into a delightful adventure, but it comes with serious responsibilities that many pet owners overlook. A CNN news story reports that in a vehicle traveling just 30 miles per hour, a 10-lb dog who is unrestrained can injure other passengers and become severely injured in a vehicle crash.

From proper restraints to temperature management, every detail matters when your furry companion joins you on the road. Here’s a list of 16 essential ways to keep your pets safe during car travel, covering everything from basic restraints to emergency preparedness.

Keep pets in the back seat

Pets should ride in the back seat in a carrier or crate using a pet seat belt as it protects them from deploying airbags in the case of a collision. Front-seat airbags that save human lives can seriously injure or kill pets during deployment.

The back seat also reduces driver distractions and gives pets more space to feel comfortable.

Size restraints properly for your pet

The industry standard for harnesses is the ‘two-finger fit,’ meaning that a harness is a good fit if you can comfortably fit two fingers between it and the pet’s body. Too loose means your pet could slip out during an accident, while too tight restricts breathing and movement.

Carriers should allow pets to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without excess space that could cause injury during sudden stops.

Secure crates and carriers with seat belts

They should be attached to the car’s seat belt or another restraint system if positioned on the rear passenger seat. A loose carrier becomes a dangerous projectile during accidents, potentially injuring both pets and passengers.

Position carriers as close to the vehicle’s center as possible to minimize impact forces during collisions.

Gradually acclimate pets to car travel

Take several short trips with your dog to get them accustomed to riding in the car before you take off on a long trip. Gradually increase the length of these shorter trips to work up to long-distance travel with dogs.

Start with five-minute drives around the block, then gradually extend to longer distances. This builds positive associations and reduces travel anxiety significantly.

Feed pets hours before departure

Feed your pet a light meal three to four hours before you leave. While you’re on the road, always stop to feed your dog.

Don’t feed them in a moving vehicle. Moving vehicles can trigger motion sickness in pets, leading to uncomfortable and messy situations.

Avoid feeding them meals right before travel or while in motion to prevent car sickness, as it can lead to nausea and vomiting.

Update identification before traveling

Make sure your pet is microchipped for identification and wears a collar and tag imprinted with your name, phone number and any relevant contact information. It’s a good idea for your pet’s collar to also include a temporary travel tag with your cell phone and destination phone number for the duration of your trip.

Lost pets are more likely during travel when everything feels unfamiliar.

Pack essential travel supplies

Prep a pet-friendly travel kit. Bring food, a bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and first-aid, and any travel documents.

Include familiar items like favorite toys or blankets to provide comfort in unfamiliar environments. Don’t forget waste cleanup supplies and any required health certificates for interstate travel.

Monitor temperature throughout the journey

Check the temperature in the back of the car: Although most cars have great air conditioning for the front seats, the back seat or boot can heat up very quickly and become dangerously warm for your pet. Rear seating areas often have poor air circulation compared to front seats.

Adjust vents toward the back and consider using cooling mats for additional comfort.

Avoid pickup truck beds entirely

And you shouldn’t drive a pickup truck with a pet loose in the truck bed. Truck beds offer zero protection from weather, flying debris, or sudden stops that could launch pets out of the vehicle.

Many states have laws specifically prohibiting this dangerous practice, and it puts pets at extreme risk of serious injury or death.

Prepare for hot weather emergencies

Familiarise yourself with the signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting and difficulty breathing, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler area, offer them a drink of water, and use cool water to dampen their body.

Act quickly but avoid ice-cold water, which can cause shock.

Choose certified safety products over cheap alternatives

Companies that offer safety-certified products have spent considerable time and money to prove their product will protect you and your pet. While quality restraints cost more upfront, veterinary bills from accident injuries will far exceed the price difference.

If your pet is injured in an accident, the vet bill will likely far exceed the price of the car seat.

Making every mile matter

The difference between a safe journey and a tragic accident often comes down to the small decisions made before turning the key. At just 30mph an unrestrained dog weighing 20kg would be hurled forward with a force equivalent to the weight of a small moose! These safety measures aren’t just recommendations—they’re the foundation of responsible pet ownership that transforms potentially dangerous situations into memorable adventures.

Taking the time to properly prepare and equip your vehicle ensures that both you and your furry companion arrive safely at your destination, ready to create new memories together.