Menagerie in Motion: Driving With Pets in the Car

Sometimes, it’s inevitable. We have to travel with our pets. Whether it’s cats, dogs, fish, or hamsters – we might need to take them to the vet or on a road trip. In fact, roughly 84 percent of pet owners say they travel with their pets at some point during their lives. Sometimes, it’s a regular occurrence. Here’s the best way to transport your companions.

Don’t Allow Them To Roam

Don’t allow pets to roam around in the car. Not only could they hurt themselves, they could become a distraction for you. If you have to stop suddenly, they could become a projectile, and injure themselves, or you. Worst case scenario: They could die, or cause a serious or fatal car crash.

Pets that roam free in the vehicle can also become anxious or nervous and seek attention when you’re supposed to be focusing on the road.

Protect Your Vehicle

Protect your vehicle from pet accidents, fur, and dander. You could put down one of these car seat covers along with the pet crate. Combined, a pet crate and a seat cover will prevent your pet from tearing up your vehicle and it will make it much easier to clean after the trip.

For Dogs, Cats, Hamsters, and other Furry Creatures

Dogs, cats, and hamsters, and other furry 4-legged creatures should be kept in an appropriately-sized crate. The crate should be large enough to house them, and small enough to protect them. Make sure that the crate has bedding and is lined property for the animal. Dogs generally need to have something soft to lay on. Cats tend to enjoy soft things to lay on and something to scratch or play with, for example.

Dogs, and many cats, like to watch the world go by when you drive so consider keeping them near a window and rolling it down. Dogs especially like to stick their head out the window but, in a crate, this isn’t possible. So, consider rolling the window down for them so that they can feel the breeze on their face.

Snakes

Snakes need to be kept in a secure plastic container with a snapping-lock lid. The container should have air holes in. Maintain a stable temperature in the vehicle so the snake doesn’t get too hot or too cold.

Frogs and Amphibians

Frogs need to be kept in a small plastic container with a wet towel on the bottom to maintain humidity. If you don’t provide a warm, moist, environment, they may dry out.

Birds

Birds need to be placed in special bird cages. Make sure the bird is comfortable and the cage is secured. These cages are often sold as “carry cages” and can be purchased from most pet supply stores. Keep a blanket over the cage to prevent the bird from stressing out. Unlike dogs, birds don’t like to see things whizzing by. It may agitate the animal. Also, don’t keep water in the cage as it will slosh around and make a mess. When you need to water the bird, stop and do it at a rest stop.

Fish

Fish are tricky to transport because they require water. The best way to move them is in a clean plastic bowl with a tight lid and air-holes for breathing. If possible, use a battery-powered aeration device. You can also use a plastic baggie with water in a pinch. Make sure the container has never held any chemicals in it prior to your fish.

Rebecca Warrington has spent many years working in animal welfare and also enjoys sharing her ideas and insights with an online audience. She has already written for a number of different websites on a variety of topics.