Driving with a pet is a great way to spend time together, whether you’re going to the store or taking a trip together. Keep reading this post by AMSOIL: Rodney Surratt in Mooresville, NC, for some valuable tips on driving safely with your pet.
Get Your Pet Used to the Car
Getting your pet used to riding in the car is the first step in taking them wherever you want. Taking your pet out of their typical environment and into a car can be stressful for them, and more so if they’re not used to it. That’s helping them get used to your vehicle, and the sounds and smells of the road is the best way to get them to be calmer when accompanying you on your daily errands or longer trips.
The easiest way of helping them feel more comfortable is to start with short drives around town. If you notice your dog gets very anxious about riding in the car, try lowering the window to get fresh air; going for a walk before riding in the car can also help them feel more relaxed while in the car. After a few short drives, start increasing the distances until you think they’re ready to take on a more extended trip.
Tip: When driving with a pet that isn’t used to the car yet, make sure you take breaks to let them go to the bathroom and get some fresh air. This can also help them relieve their anxiety.
One way of making driving with your pet safe is by having a regular car maintenance routine. The experts at Mooresville Synthetic Oil can advise you on the best products for your engine by calling them at (336) 247-0212 or visiting their online store to see their full range of products.
Using a Crate
Driving with a pet is all about keeping them safe and allowing you to pay your full attention to the road. One way of doing this is to keep them restrained in the back seat. There are a few ways to restrain them, but studies show that the best way to keep pets safe is to use crates. If you go with a crate, it should be roomy enough for them to walk around, and they should also be able to lay down comfortably. The best way of getting them used to the crate is by letting them sniff it while still at home and giving them treats when they go into it. Lastly, an excellent way to reduce anxiety when in the crate is by putting familiar scents in it like a blanket or a pillow.
Another vital thing to remember when driving with a pet and taking them on your daily errands is that many stores don’t let pets accompany you. You might think it’s ok to leave them in the car while you run in the store, but this can be unsafe for your pet. Think of the inside of your car as an oven; it’s easy for temperatures to climb quickly inside even if outside temperatures aren’t that hot. Even if you’re not leaving them alone in the car, they must have enough liquids to hydrate while running errands together.
Leaving a pet confined in a vehicle is illegal in North Carolina, so keep this in mind and make other arrangements for your pet if you know you won’t be able to take them into stores or other venues you’re visiting.
Microchip Your Pet
Lastly, if you plan a road trip where you’ll be bringing your pet, a good idea is to have them microchipped beforehand. Pet microchips emit a radio frequency that gets registered to their owner and can be scanned by a veterinarian or rescue if your pet gets lost. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but scanning the microchip is a good way of ensuring your pet can make its way back to you.
Having a reliable maintenance routine for your vehicle is the key to keeping it running smoothly for longer and keeping it safe when driving with a pet. Call the experts at Mooresville Synthetic Oil at (336) 247-0212 and let them help you out in choosing the best products for your engine. If you’re ready to place an order, visit their online shop anytime!