Food, seat belt, warmth… the right actions to adopt when traveling by car with your pet

When driving, don't let your dog stick his head out of an open window. kosziv/Getty Images

Taking your pet on a "road trip" is a good idea. But it's not always easy to hit the road with your dog or cat. Car trips can be stressful and potentially dangerous for our furballs. That's why it's important to take certain precautions.

First of all, it is important to remember that pets are passengers like any other. Their owners must take the necessary steps to ensure that they travel in the car in the best possible conditions. It is therefore out of the question to let them wander around as they please in a moving vehicle.

Seat belt ?

To ensure their safety, it is best to put them in a transport box, or to attach them to one of the seat belts in the rear parcel shelf using a harness. For large dogs, it is possible to install a safety net on the back of the front seats. Estate car drivers can also install a separation grid in the trunk. But be careful, with this device, the dog can be injured in the event of braking.

Generally speaking, article R 412-6 of the Highway Code stipulates that “the driver must constantly be in a condition and position to carry out all the maneuvers incumbent upon him conveniently and without delay". He must therefore not be bothered or distracted by one of his passengers in his vehicle, including his pet. If this happens, he is liable to a fine.

No food before if he has motion sickness

Apart from not letting your little companion wander around the passenger compartment of the vehicle, you must ensure his comfort by adopting a few reflexes.

For example, avoid feeding your furball just before hitting the road. This may make them feel worse if they get car sick. Car journeys can be stressful for animals. That's why it's advisable to drive smoothly and gently to avoid any jolts as much as possible.

Watch the temperature

Also keep an eye on the temperature inside the car, as animals are much more sensitive to heat than we are. It may be tempting to let your dog or cat stick their head out an open window to cool down. But this is a false good idea that can turn out to be very dangerous. To avoid heatstroke, it is best to take regular breaks. This will allow your pet to get some fresh air and stretch its legs. Encourage it to drink during these downtimes so that it is well hydrated.

Finally, if you have to leave your vehicle temporarily without your pet, be careful. In summer, the mercury can quickly rise in a car, even when parked in the shade. So don't hesitate to use sun visors to protect your pet from excessive heat, and make sure it has access to fresh water.