As more families hit the road this summer with furry companions in tow, now is the perfect time to help your customers think beyond oil changes and tire checks—let’s talk pet travel safety. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, pets need the same thoughtful planning and protection as the rest of the family.
Encourage pet parents to secure their animals with crash-tested harnesses or travel crates, never allow pets to roam freely in the vehicle, and absolutely avoid leaving them in a hot car—even for a few minutes. Pet-safe travel also means packing essentials like water, snacks, waste bags, and up-to-date ID tags.
By sharing simple tips like these on your service counters, websites, or social pages, you show your customers you care about all their loved ones—and that builds loyalty that lasts long after summer ends.
Be a trusted voice for safe, smart, and pet-friendly travel this season with these pet travel safety tips from Ask Patty!
Headed out on a summer road trip with your furry friend? Make sure pets are safely secured in a crash-tested harness or a well-ventilated crate. A free-roaming pet in the car is a safety risk for everyone.
Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Even with the windows cracked, summer heat can turn deadly in minutes. Plan pet-friendly stops and keep your whole family safe.
Before your trip, take your pet on short drives to get them comfortable in the car. A little practice now means less stress later, for both of you.
Pack a travel bag for your pet with the same care you do for yourself. Include water, a bowl, leash, snacks, waste bags, and any medications. A comfortable pet is a safer traveler.
Secure loose items in the vehicle. In an abrupt stop, gear can become dangerous—and pets are especially vulnerable to flying objects.
Keep heads and paws inside the vehicle at all times. It might look fun, but open windows can lead to injury or worse. Use climate control to keep pets cool and safe.
Stop every few hours for water, bathroom breaks, and a stretch. Pets need breaks just like people, and regular stops can prevent overheating and anxiety.
Update your pet’s ID tags and microchip info before you go. If you’re traveling far from home, this small step could make all the difference in an emergency.
Don’t feed your pet a big meal right before the drive. Light snacks are better, and help reduce the chance of car sickness.
Before you hit the road, double-check that your vehicle is road-trip ready, and that your pet’s safety plan is too. We can help with one. The other is up to you.