TRAVELLING WITH YOU DOG IN A CAR

TRAVELLING WITH YOU DOG IN A CAR

If you've decided to take your car, you've undoubtedly made the best choice for your four-legged friend. The car is a simple and safe means of transport for a dog, not very stressful because it is possible to stop to let him go out, walk, play, do his business (don't forget the small bags to collect his excrement...) or drink some water.

Moreover, most dogs love to get in and out of the car, provided they have been used to it from a young age. It is important, whether it is a short or a long journey, to avoid - it cannot be repeated too often - that the dog jumps non-stop from one seat to another or barks all the time. This behaviour could be dangerous or annoying to the driver or other passengers.

Precautions to adopt

It is sometimes preferable and more practical to put it in a dog carrier. This keeps the animal quiet and also reduces the risk of illness. The bag or crate should be placed high up to reduce swaying and securely fastened to the back seat so that it cannot fall or move.

The dog can also be prevented from moving by simply tying it up with a short leash, but without a muzzle that would not allow the dog to breathe properly. If the vehicle is used by the whole family, it is preferable to install it in the back, separated from the other occupants by a net or grille.

Under no circumstances should it be placed in the trunk where it could suffer claustrophobia or die from asphyxiation due to exhaust fumes.

To prevent the dog from vomiting in the car, it is preferable not to give him anything to eat two or three hours before departure. Especially during the first few trips, it is advisable to carefully protect the seats with plastic. You can also give him an anti-stress for dog.

Why not leave a dog alone in the car?

Heat and dehydration are two important factors to take into account when travelling by car with a dog. Never leave a dog alone in a car, even for a relatively short time and even if it is not very hot. A car can turn into a real oven in just a few minutes. Above 30° C, your dog can go into shock, suffer heart problems and even die: this is heat stroke.

In the event of a very brief absence, to go to the toilet for example, you should park the car in the shade and leave the windows half open, enough for the air to circulate but not enough for the animal to stick its head out.

When the car is in motion, it is also important to make sure that the dog does not stick his head out of the door, as this often causes ear infections, conjunctivitis, colds and irritation due to dust entering the eyes, nostrils or ears.

In the summer, you should also be wary of traffic jams if the car does not have air conditioning, because here again the dog can get sunstroke, fall into shock or die, due to the heat and lack of air. If the traffic jam threatens to last, choose to stop and go out for a walk or play with your dog until the traffic improves.

Reminder of the rules to respect in the car 

• Every two hours, take a break for yourself and for him.
• Don't let his head go through the window to avoid eye and ear problems.
• Make the animal comfortable in the back of the vehicle. Small pets can be left in their basket. For large dogs, provide a grid or separation net.
• When you open the door, be careful that he doesn't run away.
• Never leave your dog in your vehicle in the sun, even with the windows open. The temperature can quickly rise above 50°C: you risk heat stroke, which can be fatal! As soon as the first symptoms appear (the animal drools, gasps, its tongue turns purple), quickly consult a veterinarian.

Veterinarian's advice for travelling by car with your dog

• For your safety and that of your dog, do not leave your dog loose in the vehicle. Your dog could be injured or even cause an accident if you brake hard. In a transport crate, with a seat belt system or a wire mesh separation depending on the size of your companion, protect him, protect yourself!
• Gradually get him used to the car, first making short trips and warmly congratulating him. Beware, your dog can sense your state of stress.
• Once the car has stopped, at each break, put on the collar and hold the leash firmly so that he doesn't escape you and run away on the road.
• Never leave your dog alone in the car, even with the window open, and even in the shade. He risks a fatal heat stroke!

In conclusion: a car trip with your dog is possible! Don't let him wander around in the car, make short trips at the start. And above all, never leave him alone in your car!