If you’re planning on a road trip this summer, make sure no one with four legs touches the steering wheel.
About 40 per cent of pet owners are planning to take Fido and Felix on vacation this summer, according to a recent ICBC survey. However, only 45 per cent of dog guardians own a vehicle restraint for their pup and out of that minority, only 55 per cent consistently use the device.
Given the risk of a beloved dog going airborne during a crash, both ICBC and the BC SPCA are reminding drivers to consider their pets before heading onto the highway.
“As with any loved one that rides in your vehicle, we hope drivers will take steps to keep their dog or cat seated, secure and safe during every drive,” stated BC SPCA general manager of community relations Lorie Chortyk in a recent press release.
ICBC and the BC SPCA each recommend using some form of safety restraint and keeping their pet in the back seat, never the front.
Part of the rationale is for keeping the pet safe in the event the car’s airbags are deployed, but the survey also underscored that pets can be a distraction for drivers, as five per cent of respondents admitted to letting their pet sit on their lap while driving and feeding the pet while driving.
“Part of driving smart is making sure everyone in the vehicle – including pets, are secured before leaving home,” stated ICBC interim vice-president responsible for road safety, Lindsay Matthews. “In the event of a crash, this prevents passengers from incurring further injury, while keeping the pet safe, too.”
ICBC also recommends bringing food, water, and pet toys in order to keep everyone calm during a lengthy drive. ICBC’s release also touts the value of frequent pit stops.
Cat owners reported being more conscientious than dog owners in terms of safety. Approximately 85 per cent of cat owners reported owning a safety device for the car with the vast majority stating they always use the restraint.
