Dogs and Cars

Unless you are lucky enough to live out in the countryside with lots of private grounds you will have to travel to get your dog to a space open enough to give it a good run. Of course if you are in walking distance of a dog friendly park you can simply pop on a lead and go, but for many dog owners living in a busy town centre or city, a daily car journey is a necessity.

It is important your dog feels comfortable and safe for necessary car journeys of any length. This is a list of dog travel accessories

Dog Safety

Dog car crates or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Think how frightened your dog might be looking through the window of a moving car with everything whizzing past!

It could be there is no room for a travel cage or that maybe your dog is taken out in more than one car, in which case a dog harness with seat belt adaptor is a good alternative. This is a highly recommended multi purpose accessory for your dog!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. If unsecured, your frightened dog could easily jump out of a car and run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

The boot of a car is not designed for comfort so if your dog has to travel in the car dog beds are much nicer to sleep on.

It is also a good idea to keep a dog blanket in your car especially if you are planning a long journey in the colder months. (Keep a blanket for yourself too in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. Keeping water and a suitable bowl is essential and you should consider getting a material dog travel bowl that folds up when not in use instead of the standard bulky plastic bowl.

Handy hint: The car engine might need water too! Re-use any empty plastic milk or juice bottles and keep a supply of water in your boot for your dog and car engine. Especially vital during the hot months. You can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream if out in the countryside.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don't forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Tip: If you also have children you may already have car window shades that are just as suitable for your pet!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! You can lift smaller dogs into the car but what if you have had a particularly muddy run or if you have an older heavier dog that can't jump up? A number of dog ramps for cars are available that fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. If your dog is unfortunate to obtain a nasty cut when you are out in the middle of nowhere, first aid can be vital. Pet travel first aid kits often come complete with gauzes, wipes and bandages and fit in most glove compartments.

Swellpets.co.uk has many more great products for dogs. Give it a whirl.co.uk