Maintaining Safety for Miniature Schnauzers During Car Rides

Many owners of small dogs such as Miniature Schnauzers enjoy having their dogs in their laps, but a car is not the place for such companionship. During an accident, the sudden deceleration can cause the driver to bend forward at the waist, crushing the dog, or an airbag opening can do your Miniature Schnauzer irreparable harm. Sitting on the seat beside you or on the backseat without a seatbelt is also dangerous, because a sudden stop can throw the dog forward onto the floor or seatback. Even being held in a passenger’s lap with the passenger holding the dog is not safe for your Miniature Schnauzer, because during an accident it might be difficult for a startled passenger to hold on. Riding in the back of a pickup truck is also dangerous, because your dog could spot another dog or cat and jump out, or he or she could be dognapped during a traffic stop. There are two basic ways of keeping your Miniature Schnauzer safe during car rides. One involves using a crate and the other is to use a harness and seatbelt.

Dogs normally like their crates, if they are never used for punishment. If a crate is large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around, and if he or she is not kept there for prolonged periods, your Miniature Schnauzer will think of his or her crate as a den. Pet supply stores sell crates of different sizes, so take your dog to the store and try some out for size. If that is not possible, then measure the size of your dog and choose a crate on the internet. Leave the crate in the same place all the time, near your Miniature Schnauzer’s food and water bowls. Put a blanket and favorite toy into the crate to make it comfortable and homey. When you take your Miniature Schnauzer on a car trip, put him or her into the crate and place the crate onto the backseat or the back of a hatchback. Your Miniature Schnauzer can take a nap in his or her den and feel safe.

Dog harnesses are another way to keep your Miniature Schnauzer safe during car trips, and they have the advantage of allowing you to pet your dog when you are stopped in traffic. Pet supply stores such as PetSmart and Petco sell harnesses with loops to fit onto seatbelts, or you can find one on the internet. Most schnauzers will take a size small, but try them on to get a good fit, or measure your dog’s size if you shop online. Keep the harness in the car to be able to find it easily when you go on a trip. The harness should be placed onto the dog with the loop in the back. Then the car’s seatbelt is put through the loop and fastened as you would fasten the belt for a person. This will keep your Miniature Schnauzer from flying around and falling during sudden deceleration.

Love your Miniature Schnauzer and keep it safe and sound so that you two can enjoy many years of companionship.

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