How To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car ?

How To Secure Dog Crate In Car :- Imagine the impact of a car crash at 60 miles per hour on an unrestrained person—they’d likely be thrown from the vehicle due to the immense force. The same risk applies to your unrestrained dog, whether they’re in the front or backseat. Yet, some still drive around with their pets loose in the car.

With car accidents involving pets on the rise, laws have been implemented in at least 14 states and numerous local jurisdictions to prohibit leaving pets unattended in vehicles. In New Jersey, for instance, failing to restrain your dog can result in a fine of up to $1,000. Similarly, Hawaii explicitly states that driving with a dog on your lap is illegal. These laws prioritize both human and pet safety, but ultimately, your responsibility for your and your dog’s safety remains paramount.

In this article, we’ll delve into the dangers of leaving your dog unrestrained during car travel, methods to ensure both you and your furry friend stay safe, and specifically, how to secure a plastic kennel in your car to minimize distractions and enhance safety.

Ways To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car

Ensuring your dog’s safety in the car is paramount, whether you’re running errands or embarking on a longer journey. Here are five ways to securely transport your dog in a crate:

• Car Trunk (Recommended):
  • Securing the crate in the trunk is highly recommended for optimal safety.
  • Use bungee cables to anchor the crate securely to prevent movement during the journey.
  • Ensure your dog is comfortable inside the crate before securing it in the trunk.
• Rear Seats:
  • Utilize seat belts to anchor the crate securely on the rear seats.
  • Alternatively, attach the crate to the headrests using bungee cords for added stability.
  • Keep in mind the space required if you have multiple dogs.
• Footwell:
  • Suitable for smaller dogs, placing the crate in the footwell keeps them out of harm’s way.
  • Position the crate behind the passenger seat to avoid adjusting the driver’s seat.
  • Secure the crate by gently moving the passenger seat backward until it’s firmly in place.
• Bungee Cords:
  • Bungee cords offer a cost-effective solution for securing the crate in either the trunk or back seats.
  • Attach the cords to designated loopholes or headrests, ensuring the crate remains stable throughout the journey.
• Dog Booster Seat:
  • Ideal for dogs who struggle with anxiety in confined spaces, a booster seat provides comfort and visibility.
  • Place the booster seat on the rear seats and thread the car seat belt through the carrier for added security.
  • Ensure your dog is safely secured within the booster seat using the provided attachments.

By implementing these methods, you can ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during car journeys, making every trip a pleasant experience for both of you.

Choose the Best Kennel For Your Dog

How To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car A traditional dog kennel typically crafted from lightweight, durable materials like plastic ensures convenience for owners. These kennels may feature a single front door or include an additional top door, particularly beneficial for easy loading and unloading, especially when traveling with a cat.

We advise against wire crates due to their inability to withstand the force of a car collision, compromising your pet’s safety.

Ensuring your dog’s comfort is paramount. Opting for an appropriately sized kennel allows ample space for sitting up and lying down comfortably. Enhance their comfort by adding a kennel mat or blanket and lining the sides with foam to cushion against any bumps during the journey. Providing adequate food, water, and carrying a well-stocked first aid kit further ensures your pet’s well-being on the road.

Secure the Plastic Kennel

To securely fasten a plastic kennel in your car, follow these steps:

• Position the kennel on the back seat, behind either the driver’s or passenger’s seat. Avoid placing it in the middle seat.
• Pull the car’s seat belt around the length of the kennel and buckle it securely.
• Ensure the seatbelt is locked to prevent the kennel from sliding during turns or sudden stops.
• For larger kennels, consider investing in safety straps that can be attached to the kennel and buckled into the seat belt latch for added stability.
• If safety straps are unavailable, placing the kennel in the cargo area of your SUV may be necessary.

Remember, it’s safer to secure your pet in the back seat rather than the front seat for their protection during travel.

Why You Should Never Secure A Dog Crate On Passengers Seat

Placing a crate on the passenger seat poses significant risks to your dog’s safety, primarily due to the proximity to the airbag. In the event of a collision, the airbag deployment can cause severe injuries to your dog if they are directly in front of it.

Even without a crate, allowing your dog to sit on the passenger seat in front of an airbag is hazardous and should be avoided at all costs.

Moreover, having your dog on the passenger seat can be a major distraction for the driver, increasing the likelihood of accidents. While it’s important to prioritize your pup’s comfort, it’s safest for them to travel in a crate positioned in the back of the car where there are minimal distractions for the driver and maximum protection for your dog.