Car Safety Tips for LA Pets

Los Angeles is known worldwide for its star-studded neighborhoods, noteworthy celebrities, and, of course, our traffic. The LA Times recently reported that “According to Los Angeles Police Department data, 312 people were killed in traffic collisions last year, 5% more than in 2021 and a 29% increase over 2020.” Because Los Angeles traffic is likely not going to change any time soon, it’s important that Los Angeles pet parents consider their pet’s car safety, no matter how far they plan to drive. Today, we’re discussing my top four car safety tips for LA pets.

Check out our Amazon storefront for recommended pet travel essentials.

Avoid Distractions

We all know we’re not supposed to text and drive. Most of us avoid eating messy meals or doing our make-up while driving. Yet, many pet lovers will drive with their pets in their laps, which can lead to potentially dangerous distractions, and think nothing of it.

Loose Pets = Distracted Drivers

Keep pets inside the vehicle and properly restrained to avoid distractions and accidents.

I believe that pet parents that drive with their pets in their laps have the best of intentions. Maybe their pet gets nervous in the car. Maybe the pet and human enjoy the closeness of sharing a nice drive together. While there are many reasons why pet parents might think allowing their pet on their lap while they drive is a harmless decision, it can be far from safe and is often a recipe for disaster.

In a car accident, unsecured cats and dogs can be propelled into the dashboard or windshield. Per PSI, if a car crashes at a speed of 25 mph, an unrestrained dog could be projected at a force 40x its weight. See the graphic below for more details.

No different than other distractions, having a pet on your lap or letting your pet run around the vehicle when driving can lead to a fender bender or worse.

Keep Pets Inside the Car

Pets are Safest Inside the Vehicle

While it is legal to transport pets in the bed of a truck in California, it’s often not the best option.

California Vehicle Code § 23117 requires companion animals riding in the back of a vehicle “in a space intended for any load” on the highways to be cross-tethered to the vehicle or protected by a secured container or cage, to prevent the animal from falling, and jumping, or being thrown from the vehicle.” Failure to abide by these rules is punishable by a fine of $50 to $100 for the first offense and $75 to $200 for a subsequent offense if it occurs within one year of the prior infraction according to California Vehicle Code § 42001.4.

While there are ways to legally transport pets in the bed of a truck, the law does not account for the elements, sunburns, and fear pets may experience while riding in a truck bed. Keeping pets inside the car keeps them safe from extreme temperatures, prevents skin cancer, and offers them the most comfortable ride.

Restrain Your Pets

Pet Sitters International Urges Pet Parents to Take Car Safety Seriously

While keeping pets inside the car is my recommendation, letting them roam the car while you drive is also an inevitable distraction. Instead, I prefer to have pets travel in a crate or car seat. There are also safety-tested vehicle harnesses that make great no-pull harnesses for travel and exploring once you arrive. When space allows, car seat hammocks can work well but aren’t as secure as the above-noted options.

No matter what car safety equipment you choose to buy for your pet, keep in mind the following tips:

• Find the right size; most safety equipment has to be properly fitted to the body to work properly

• Know the maximum weight; safety testing will have been done with a specific weight in mind therefore exceeding weight can affect results

• Slowly introduce restraints and equipment using treats and positive reinforcement to acclimate pet(s) before your trip; don’t wait for the day prior

• Do your research and discuss equipment questions and concerns with your veterinary team

Another great reason to keep pets restrained is that they may pose a danger to first responders in the case of an accident. When seconds count, having a pet in a crate, harness, or seat allows rescuers to reach you and your family.

Plan for Weather

Plan for Everything

Check the weather, bring extra supplies, prepare for the worst-case scenario, then enjoy your trip knowing you’re ready for anything.

Whether we’re going on a quick hike or a weekend adventure, we usually pack weather-appropriate clothes, toiletries, and gear for ourselves. Planning and packing for our pets should be no different.

When driving with your pet, ensure you have a backup plan and a car first aid kit in case of an emergency. Pack extra supplies in case your car breaks down or you need to unexpectedly extend your time away.

Check the temperatures and weather at your destination before leaving. Know if you should expect any storms or environmental conditions that will make bringing your pet unsafe, unpleasant, or inconvenient.

Especially this time of year, bring along towels and jugs of fresh water to cool down your pet in the case of an overheating emergency. Before you think of cutting any weather or travel-related corners, read these warnings from the National Weather Service before heading out on pet-friendly adventures.

Count on Me

There may be times when driving pets in and around Los Angeles will create stress or cause inconvenience due to traffic congestion, wildfires, you name it. In those cases, count on me to help transport or care for your pet(s) at home.

Furbaby Bestie’s in-home pet care options are flexible, personalized, and top-notch.

Instead of bringing your pet along, keep them in the comfort of their own home with regular feeding, playtime, and love from me, their bestie, Steph.

P.S. - Want to share your favorite car travel tips and pet safety equipment? Tell me about it on Facebook! Sharing is caring!