Distracted Driving – Unrestrained Pets Are Unsafe!

We all enjoy taking our canine companions with us where ever we go, but dog owners beware – Taking your pup for a ride can be hazardous to not only you and your pet, but to others on the road as well. According to a recent survey by AAA, nearly 60% of pet owners have driven while being distracted by their pets. This problem is so widespread that two states (Rhode Island and Tennessee) are deliberating over banning unrestrained pets all together. Only about 1 out of every 6 dog owners use restraints on their pets when they ride in the car. When our furry friends are left unleashed in the car, they can prove to be quite distracting by crawling on the floor and obstructing the pedals, interfering with steering, and trying to climb in the driver’s lap. In addition to distracting the driver, our pets are just not safe in the front seat – An air bag deploying could cause serious damage to your pet! In order to keep everyone safe, we need to buckle up our canine passengers in the backseat. A dog car harness is a great idea for bigger breeds – These comfy harnesses attach to the seatbelt and keep your pup in place. For smaller dogs, a dog car seat is a good alternative. These comfortable seats give your pooch a cushy place to relax while riding in safety. There are straps that hook to your dog’s harness to anchor them in place. Most of these seats are at least slightly raised, which gives tiny dogs a better view. With just a few small changes, what was once a dangerous drive can become a safe journey for everyone in the family, as well as other drivers on the road.