Statistics show that up to 84% of Americans take their pets with them in the car, and over 50% take them with to do their holiday shopping, visiting, and get togethers. Much of that 50% involves a lot of time spent in the car, between driving and long waits during their owners activities. Even so, most pets enjoy car rides, so why not bring them along? Well, there can be a few reasons, but let's hope these following products solve them, so your pet can still be along for the ride.
Prestige Pet® Road Refresher: Smart, but simple product. Road Refresher does just what its named for, refreshing your pets thirst on the road. Road Refresher is a 3 piece product, consisting of base, inner section and lid. All you have to do is remove the anti-splash lid, lift out the floating inner cover, and fill. Replace the lid and cover, and the Road Refreshers design prevents any water from spilling out, no matter how bumpy the ride! Velcro attached to the bowls bottom latches onto your cars carpeted floor, keeping the bowl secure throughout the drive. Road Refresher is available locally, and on many sites online. However, this product's design has been used by many other companies under different names, so wherever you look, you should be able to find it. $9.99
Calming aids: Most dogs and cats get either nervous or excited in the car, but in the case of going to new places, it can be both emotions. When you arrive at your destination, this can continue, turning your pet into a nuisance. Pet calming aids work very well in these situations. Calming aids come in many varieties, including but not limited to: pills, natural treats, sprays, collars, and prescriptions-depending on your dog and the level at which he is stressed, each can work equally well. Do some research and consider talking to your vet about which is best for your pet. These not only keep your pet manageable, but keep him happier.
Restraints: When going on long car rides, or waits while you're shopping, you probably don't want your pet scampering around the car. Not only can it be annoying, but dangerous, taking your eyes off the road. Consider purchasing a type of restraint for your pet when you travel. This can range from something as simple as a crate, to something as silly sounding as a dog seat belt. Although both work well, they really do restrain your pet. For some dogs this may be okay, but others might not tolerate it. Considering that, one product design caught my eye. Its essentially a doggy gate that fits in your car, separating the seats from the cargo area. This keeps your dog free to move around,but limited in his space. This prevents him from damaging your delicate seats, drinking your water (ew!), or any other destructive behavior he can get into. With the diverse amount of companies making them, you can find one to fit almost any car at a reasonable price.
Seat Covers: These are great for a family with an on the go pet. Pet seat covers are made to fit almost any car, in a variety of colors, sizes, materials and fashions. They don't just keep pet hair off your seat, but they protect from sharp nails, and make accidents easy to clean. Covers are also very useful for trips to the beach, hiking, ect. as you don't have to worry about dirty dog prints staining your seats. Must have for the active family!
First Aid kits: A lot of people keep first aid kits in their cars for emergencies...but what about your pets? Its very common for a active dog to injure himself in one way or another when he's on the go. Older pets are more at risk of needing emergency care. Pet first aid kits are easily available, but it's a good idea to just make your own, incorporating your pets specific needs into it as you build it.
Especially in hot or freezing weather when in-car temperatures can exceed exceptions. It's a good idea to periodically check your pets and let them out for a breather if you'll be gone a while. A great way to fight boredom in the car is to bring your pets favorite toys, bones, and chews so he can occupy himself when you're gone. That also diminishes the chances of destructive behavior. Speaking of "destructive behavior" I better go check MY dog. Hope that you and your pets travel well this holiday season and throughout the New Year! See you 2013!
No comments:
Post a Comment