Celebrating our area's four-legged, feathered and finned friends
Buckle Up Your Pets!
Millions of Americans drive with their pets (especially dogs) in the car. We’ve all done it…taken the drive with that little furball curled in our lap. Or how about those big dogs that love to hang their heads out the window? The fact is, you should never drive without buckling up and making sure all passengers are strapped in, as well. This goes for your pets, too.
People are both knowingly and unknowingly being distracted by their pets when taking them along in the car. According to a recent AAA survey, 59 percent of respondents demonstrated that they have participated in at least one distracting behavior while driving with their dog. Thirty-one percent admitted to being distracted.
As National Spokesperson for Toyota’s Pet Safety Initiative, pet expert Harrison Forbes is a man on a mission. That mission is to spread the word about the importance of restraining your pets while traveling in a vehicle. “Driving with your dogs unrestrained is a distraction to the driver as well as very unsafe for the pet should there be an accident.“ Forbes explains. “Here’s something to think about: An unrestrained 60 pound dog in a wreck going 30 miles per hour equates to 2,700 pounds of projectile. Something so simple as restraining your pet can save lives.”
There are numerous products available from companies such as Kurgo to make traveling with your pet safer. Check them out and choose one that’s right for you. If you’re worried your pet won’t take too well to being restrained, Forbes advises it’s just a matter of getting them used to it, with positive association (i.e. treats and praise) each time.
Watch Harrison’s pet travel safety segment on The Today Show this Wednesday, September 21, and look for his new column in Fido Friendly Magazine. For more information including where to see him in person on his Toyota Pet Travel Safety Tour, visit harrisonforbes.com and connect with him on facebook and Twitter.
