Planning to bring the dog along in the car as you head out for your summer road trip? There’s a growing consensus that dogs should be restrained while traveling in automobiles, just like people.

Many Americans can’t bear to be parted from their pets. But dogs loose in cars can be hazardous, if they distract the driver. Unrestrained dogs can be injured in car accidents, too.

www.avma.orgThe American Veterinary Medical Association is promoting dog seat belts.

A third of dog owners admit to being distracted by their pets while driving, according to a “doggie distractions” fact sheet based on a study from the American Automobile Association and Kurgo, a maker of canine harnesses. That’s risky, since “distracted driving” is a significant factor in auto accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The American Veterinary Medical Association is promoting  seat belts for dogs, too, in a campaign called “Please Show Some Restraint.” And a Web site, Paws to Click, explains how to install a harness from the manufacturer Bergan and how to fit it on your dog.

The harnesses typically fit around the pet’s body and attach to seat belts or car seat anchors. Some manufacturers make booster seats that attach to automobile seats and work for smaller dogs, or offer lines that attach to the interior of the car so dogs can move around.

Restraints can be found at most pet stores and online.

If your dog doesn’t like being restrained, you might want to pack his favorite chew toy and stock up on some dog treats, especially for long trips.

Do you restrain your dog when he is traveling in your car? How does your pet handle being buckled in?

Article source: http://feeds.nytimes.com/click.phdo?i=0b27d28978ed40f9d8f95fd81efffcc3