Quick Answer: The safest options: a crash-tested harness with a seatbelt attachment clip, a hard-sided crate secured against the boot area, or a steel boot barrier. An unrestrained dog in a crash becomes a projectile — a 25kg dog at 50km/h has the impact force of over 1,000kg. Never allow a dog to travel with their head out the window on the highway.
Restraint Options
- Crash-tested seatbelt harness — most flexible, works in any car. Look for crash-test certification — not all harnesses are equal.
- Hard-sided crate in boot — most protective for the dog. Requires the crate to be secured against the vehicle walls.
- Boot barrier — keeps dog in the boot but doesn't protect in a crash. Better than nothing for well-behaved large dogs.
- Back seat hammock — keeps dog on the seat, minimal crash protection. Better for short trips.
Summer Car Safety
A cooling mat on the back seat or in the boot helps regulate temperature during summer travel. Offer water from the water bottle at every rest stop. Never leave a dog in a parked car in summer — temperature rises 20°F in 10 minutes.
Related Questions
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