Going on family road trips or get aways with your dog are fun and have become so much easier with modern day vehicles. However, on car rides, just as we ensure our safety, it’s critical to guarantee the safety of your family dog.
A dog seatbelt helps ensure safe travel for canines, while also helping to minimize distractions for drivers.
Are Seatbelts Safe?
This is a big question for many. There have been reports of severely injured dogs after a car crash even though they were wearing a seatbelt. A dog seatbelt is similar to a regular car seatbelt, however one end clasps to your pet’s harness and the other into the buckle. The length of the tether is short to keep your pup stable while the car is moving. However, in sudden stops a dog can still be flung forward.
However, in comparison to security gates and dog crates, seatbelts are safest for dogs. Only because they secure your pup in place and provide stability while moving.
Laws for Dogs in Motor Vehicles
Before looking for the best seatbelt or harness, there are some laws and legal restrictions to look for. There are no laws requiring drivers to secure their dogs in a vehicle, however there are many states that implement distracted driving laws. Many of these prohibit driving with a pet on the driver’s lap.
Other states have different laws for different situations, such as when driving a truck you are expected to put your dog in a crate.
Getting Your Dog Used to a Seatbelt
Most dogs aren’t comfortable with the use of a seatbelt because it restricts their movement, but with training and patience they adjust. If your dog is used to wearing a harness and a leash, learning to wear a seatbelt will be a lot easier for dogs. Once your pup is no longer paying attention to their seatbelt, you’re good to go.
Getting a seatbelt for your dog is the safest option of all driving options, however the decision is ultimately up to the owner.