Did you know that driving and transport the pet in the carso that it is between your arms or legs, in addition to being dangerous to the animal – as it puts its physical integrity at risk – is this act also a traffic violation?
And, in addition to the fine, the driver loses four points on his CNH (National Driving License), according to article 252, item II, of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB).
Continue reading to discover the correct way to transport your pet in the car and safely.
The importance of transporting your pet in the car safely
If you have ever thought about going on a trip or a tour, but were in doubt whether you could transport the fart not cartsafely and without committing any infraction, know that it is allowed to carry a pet in the car, but, for this, there is the correct way.
This is because adequate transportation is a safety issue for both the owner and the animal.
Since, in the event of an accident, the animal can suffer trauma and die if it is not properly protected.
And, keep in mind that adequate transport is also a matter of well-being for the animal, as it will be calm and desensitized during the journey. As a result, the pet will suffer less from stress and will even be able to enjoy the walk.
Furthermore, an agitated animal loose in the car also increases the likelihood of distracting the driver, moving to a location that obstructs driving/vision and eventually causing an accident.
Preventative measures for transporting your pet in the car
Often, the animal only rides in the car when it goes to the veterinarian or pet shop.
Therefore, for the pet, riding in a car can be associated with unpleasant situations for him, and as a result, the ride can become difficult to carry out.
To avoid situations of emergency or urgencypay attention to preventive measures to transport your pet safely:
Pet in the back seat
The animal must always be transported in the back seatand, using some security measure.
This is because, in cases of accidents, the impact will be smaller. Therefore, they cannot be loose in the car or with their head or any other part of their body outside the vehicle.
However, when we think about pets, especially dogs, we realize that they love to stick their heads out of the window, but this practice is not recommended.
Since objects can hit you, dust particles can be inhaled causing respiratory problems, trauma can occur during the ride and problems related to ear infections can also worsen.
Transport box
For cats or small animals, up to 25 kg, it is essential that you consider the transport box.
Keep in mind that the material needs to be made of hard plastic. And, preferably covered inside with softer material, such as a blanket, foam or pillow.
Remembering that there are many transport boxes on the market made of fabric and are malleable. However, these are not the best as they do not sufficiently protect the animal in the event of an accident or sudden braking.
However, it must be borne in mind that the box needs to be the right size, so that the animal can stand up and turn around inside it. And put it in the car, it must be secured to the seat by the seat belt.
Transport box: the pet needs to feel comfortable
To use the box, it is essential that the animal has been trained to accept and enjoy being inside it.
This prior training is extremely important to ensure the animal’s well-being. And, the ideal is to train the dog or cat from a young age. The goal is for him to like the transport box and associate it with a safe and pleasant place.
Tips for getting your pet used to the transport box
1- You can start this training with the crate inside the house, with toys, snacks, toys with snacks, games, a soft blanket, etc.
All this to make the box a very pleasant place for the animal. You should only move on to the next phase when the animal is calm, without showing signs of wanting to leave, being scared, etc.
2- Then, it’s the training phase inside the car, but with it still stopped, without movement.
3- When the animal is calm, start the car, without moving, just so it can hear the sound of the car starting.
4- And only then comes the phase of short walks, lasting 3 to 5 minutes. As the animal gets used to it, just gradually increase the time of the walk.
Remember: only progress to the next phase if your dog or cat is very calm and shows no signs of wanting to go out or being scared.
Furthermore, use positive reinforcements (affection, snacks, games, etc.) when he is calm and at the end of each training session.
Canine seat belt
As they are more agitated and often larger than cats, it is recommended for dogs to use a canine seat belt.
Unlike the common belts we see in cars, the dog seat belt has an adapter that fits across your dog’s chest, shoulders and back.
The canine belt also has a clip that attaches to the car’s seat belt latch. In this way, it guarantees the necessary safety for the dog.
Dog transport seat
For small dogs, this is a great option. But remember, even with a car seat, your pet must remain in the back seat.
The seat is attached to the back seat where the dog is placed and secured by a collar on the chest.
Therefore, the basket must be the right size for your pet to enjoy the walk in comfort and safety.
Maintain a good temperature
Because dogs have hair, they have a high basal temperature and tend to be very agitated due to the heat.
To prevent your pet from becoming agitated during travel or outings, maintain a cool temperature inside the car.
Pet in the car: tips for your animal to have a comfortable trip
In addition to the safety features we have discussed so far for transporting your pet in the car, there are some essential tips to make the moment pleasurable and fun. Check out:
- Cats need to be transported in carriers. This is very important as most of them do not feel safe in cars. With rare exceptions, of course;
- Always take your pet’s toys, water, food and blanket;
- Don’t forget to identify the animal. Microchip and plaque with name and telephone number are important to find you, if necessary;
- On long-distance trips, the ideal is to have one more person accompanying you. This way you can help take care of your pet and make it calmer along the way;
- It’s also interesting, in the case of dogs, to train them to pee when you ask. It’s not a very difficult workout. Look for a professional to help you with this;
- If your pet is very unwell during transport in the car, for example: drooling a lot, barking, shaking and having a different posture. Look for a veterinarian who specializes in animal behavior. Your pet may need more specialized treatment.
Pet in the car: what not to do
In addition to good practices, there are actions that you cannot perform during the walk or in the pet’s own routine. Check it out below:
- Never give medications without the recommendation of a trusted veterinarian;
- Do not force the animal on long walks without first training and sensitizing it with shorter walks;
- Don’t fight or scream if your furry friend vomits, barks a lot or cries;
- Never leave the animal alone in the car, because the temperature can rise inside the vehicle. And even if it’s not a hot day, this can generate several problems, such as fear, anxiety, stress and depending on the case, even the death of the pet;
- Never place your pet in the front seat.
Now that you know how to make your pet’s car ride more fun. Keep an eye on him throughout the trip, and be careful about actions you can’t perform. Have a nice trip to you!