Carzone’s Top Dog Travel Tips for International Dog Day
To celebrate International Dog Day on 26 August, Carzone, Ireland’s premier online car marketplace, has compiled a list of paw-some tips for safely travelling with your dog in the car.
We know it’s great taking man’s best friend on adventures, but there are important things to consider when travelling with dogs, particularly if you want to keep your car in top condition for future resale. Whether you’re heading to the vets or taking a day trip to the beach, these tips will ensure your beloved pooch gets safely from A to B while keeping your car in top condition for selling it in the future.
Secure Your Dog in the Car – It’s the Law
Car travel is an important part of life for many dogs, allowing them to explore new and exciting places. But when travelling in the car, safe transportation is crucial to prevent accidents. For smaller dogs, a suitably sized pet carrier is recommended. Ensure the carrier is spacious and secured with a seatbelt. Your dog or puppy should be secured in an open boot with a guard blocking access to the car’s passenger interior. Closed boots are not recommended due to poor air circulation.
Larger dogs should be secured with an appropriately sized and correctly fitted harness in the main cabin of the car. To prevent distraction, it’s best they ride in the back seat, with the harness fastened to the seat belt attachment.
Preparation is Key
First and foremost, get your dog used to the car. Reward calm behaviour near the vehicle with their favourite treats. If they’re hesitant, place a blanket or bed with a familiar scent inside to comfort them. Teach your dog to enter and exit the car calmly, as excessive jumping can be dangerous, especially in crowded car parks.
Begin with short, slow journeys to ease your dog into car travel. When making longer trips, frequent breaks are essential so your pup can stretch their legs and get fresh air. A long walk beforehand can also help – a well-exercised dog is more likely to be calm and nap during the drive.
Keep Your Dog Comfortable
Nobody likes a hot, stuffy car, including your pup. Use non-spill water bowls to keep them hydrated and facilitate airflow by slightly opening the windows. Only open them a crack to prevent pets from leaping out.
For anxious dogs, research suggests classical music can be soothing during travel. If your dog shows signs of fear, never force them as they might panic if they feel trapped. And always remember: never leave your dog unattended in the car.
Keeping the Car Clean
At Carzone, we’re often asked how to maintain a car’s resale value. Alongside regular servicing and maintenance, keeping the car clean is essential, especially with pets!
A clean car with no visible signs of dogs (or kids!) helps attract serious buyers. Limiting your pet to one spot in the car helps minimise where fur, marks and scratches can reach, keeping the vehicle in better condition for its next owner.
Following Carzone’s guidance allows your pooch to become your favourite travel companion, ensures a safe journey for all, and helps keep your car pawsitively spotless. For more automotive advice to enjoy your vehicle while keeping it in good condition for resale, visit:
