Safe and relaxed car journeys with the dog

Outdoor well in the car – there are four paws tips

Hamburg. Regardless of whether in everyday life, on the short way to the vet or on a longer journey: So that car rides for owners and dogs are relaxed, there are a lot to consider. The Global Animal Welfare Foundation explains four paws how the four-legged friend safely gets in and out where it best takes space and how it drives the safest.

Taking the dog with you in your own car is basically an animal -friendly transport form. He is in an environment familiar to him, it has it comfortably and on longer trips you can install any breaks. So that the dog feels really comfortable in the car, it is worthwhile to train driving. It is best to start with smaller excursions and then reward the dog with an extensive walk. So he soon connects the car ride with a positive experience and will always be happy to get into the car.

Before it starts: easy to get on and out
“Especially in older or anxious animals, it is advisable to raise the dog into the car. Alternatively, there are special dog lamps for large dogs that can be easily folded up and apart,” says Dr. Judith Förster, pet expert at four paws. When getting on and out, the following applies: Always use the door on the sidewalk side. The dog should also be taken on a leash for safety's sake on busy roads before getting out.

Driving with a dog? Why, surely!
“Most animals feel safe in a hundred ice box during the trip. It also offers the greatest security because the dog cannot be thrown back and forth here,” says Dr. Judith Förster. For this, it is extremely important to choose the box size to match the size of the dog. “If the box is too small, the dog cannot lie down and relax. If it is too big, it offers the animal little security, neither emotionally nor practical.”

Alternatively, you can also secure your dog in the back seat if it is characterized by a particularly quiet character. For this, the animal should wear a breast dishes or a dog safety belt. “Under no circumstances should the dog be buckled up on the collar. This can lead to serious injuries in the neck area even when braking abruptly,” warns Dr. Ranger. A third option (only suitable for particularly large animals) is the transport on the loading area in the trunk. The trunk should be separated from the back seat by a dog grille so that the animal cannot jump onto the seat while driving. In addition, you can line the bottom of the trunk with special anti -slip mats.

Lots of wind for well -being
Since dogs react very sensitive to draft, the window should only be wide open, if at all. “If the dog gets the wind permanently while driving, there is a risk of conjunctivitis,” explains the four Pfoten expert. “Even if your dog likes to put his nose in the wind: don't let it look out for the open window during the car ride, it can be easily injured by flying parts.”

So even longer trips remain relaxed
“The following applies before long trips: If you will no longer feed your dog at least two hours before starting the journey to avoid stomach. Ranger. Regular breaks, every two to three hours, are also important so that the dog can do its business in peace, get some run and drink fresh water.