Today's post is for Falconer dog lovers who bring their furry friend along with them in their automobile but do not use any type of restraint device. If this is the case for you, you are not alone. (I am sure many of us motorists are culpable.) In a recent survey by AAA and Kurgo (a pet supply company), only 16% of respondents reported using an auto safety restraint for their dog.
Key results from the study:
- 56% of survey participants had driven with their pet in a vehicle at least once a month over the prior year.
- 29% reported to being distracted by their pet while behind the wheel.
- 65% of dog owners admit to engaging in potentially distracting behavior while driving with their dog.
Reported behavior while driving with dogs:
- Petting dog (52%).
- Using hands or arms to restrict animal’s movement or restraining dog while braking (23%).
- Using hands/arms to prevent animal from jumping from the back to the front seat (19%).
- Reaching into backseat to interact with dog (18%).
- Allowing dog to sit in lap or holding dog while driving (17%).
- Giving food to pet (13%).
- Playing with dog (4%).
- Taking a picture of dog (3%).
All the results can be viewed here: https://www.kurgo.com/dog-travel-statistics/
An unrestrained dog could get severely injured or killed in an accident, but, clearly the same dog could also be the cause of an accident. Drivers who fail to contain their canine friend or purposefully interact with them while driving put themselves in danger along with the other auto owners on the road.
Safety Systems
Pet restraint devices come in many different configurations. There are auto harnesses, dog safety belts that connect to a conventional harness, and box or basket style car seats with an attached harness. Some of the box style seats are elevated which permits smaller dogs to see out of the windows. When choosing one, make sure it is manufactured for your animal's size and weight. At the very least, a pet can be put in a conventional animal carrier. Though it is not attached to the seat, at least the pet can't jump around.
Safety-conscious motorists (hopefully all of us) also need to make sure their auto is mechanically sound. I-86 Truck & Auto Repair is your partner in safety when it comes to quality auto repair and scheduled maintenance. If you are looking for a reliable service center to keep your automobile safe for both your two-legged and four-legged family members, call us at 716-665-2501.