If you think that cell phones are a driving distraction you’d be right.  I mean, c’mon, who really thinks that texting while driving makes sense?  But have you stopped to consider what a distraction your pets can be in the car?  If you aren’t using dog seat belts or restraints for your pets in the car, you could be endangering yourself, your pet and the other drivers on the road.

A recent survey by the AAA discovered that nearly two-thirds of drivers “fessed” up to petting or playing with their pets while they drive.  Some even admitted to feeding them and giving them water while they were driving!

What Happens To Your Pet In A Wreck?

I’m sure you’ve seen drivers with pets sitting on their laps (are you guilty?)  What do you think would happen if the air bag was deployed?  Your beloved pet will be slammed against you, possibly harming both you and your pet.

If your dog is traveling loose in your car and you have a wreck, what do you think will happen to your pet?  A large pet can become a virtual missile careening through the vehicle.  An 80 lb. dog, for instance, will exert 2400 pounds of force at just a 30 mph crash!  Not only can that be deadly for your dog, it puts other passengers at a great risk.

Likewise, if you have a wreck your dog can very well become agitated and territorial.  Especially when strangers arrive like police and emergency personnel.  This can be dangerous for those trying to make rescues and can be dangerous for your pet.  In some cases, dogs have been shot because of their aggressive behavior in such situations.

Dog Seat Belts Can Save Lives

AAA found in their survey that only 17% of us use any type of restraints for our dogs when we travel with them.  And we do love to take our pets with us!  Whether you’re just running errands or making a family outing to the pet store, it’s common to have the family dog jump in the back seat and ride along.

For the safety of your pet and others riding in your vehicle, you should consider getting a dog seat belt.   A good one is the Kurgo TruFit Harness.  It is easy to use and comfortable for your pet.

Here’s what others say:

“This product is well made and relatively inexpensive. It is very comfortable for my dog, and she can’t slip out of it like other harnesses…”

“I got this harness for my rambunctious Aussie and it has worked so well! He stays in the back seat but is able to move around a little and lie or sit. He twists and pulls on the harness but it is very sturdy and has held up well. I like the padded front piece–it seems to be more comfortable than a regular harness…”

Read full reviews on Amazon.com

Tags: dog seat belts