How to Safely Drive with Pets

Traveling can be stressful for you and your pet. Even if they’re not usually nervous, they can pick up on your hurried energy as you get ready to leave. But before hopping in the car, early preparations can make the drive, whether it’s near or far, smoother for everyone. Keep your cat or dog safe and sound, and prevent distractions and messes with these tips.

Pack your pet a go bag.

Your suitcase is packed, but what about theirs? For longer trips, remember to bring their food, water, treats, leash, harness, poop bags or litter box, medications and first aid, and blankets and toys that will keep them comfortable (before putting anything with them, consider if they will destroy the item out of anxiety). 

For trips of any length, it’s wise to pack a kit of cleaning supplies in case they get sick. One way to prevent messes is to feed them several hours ahead of time or, if they’re especially prone to motion sickness, skip food altogether until you’ve arrived at your destination. They’ll be OK: Temporary hunger is better than nausea. 

Talk to your vet.

If your pet shows signs of motion sickness or anxiety, your vet can recommend medication to ease discomfort. Watch for pacing, excessive drooling and panting, trembling, and whining. Talk to your vet before self-prescribing or buying a product at the pet store. They’ll make specific recommendations based on your pet’s breed and health history.

Use a crate or harness.

A pet left loose in a moving vehicle isn't just a distraction: Regardless of whether the animal is calm or active, they can become a hazardous projectile in the event of a sudden stop. In some states, including California, it is illegal to drive with an unrestrained pet in the bed of your truck. Keep your furry companion in a well-ventilated crate strapped securely in the back seat.

Molly Uhlig, a professional dog trainer in Park City, Utah, recommends crate training your pet to regularly sleep, nap, and eat in there so they have a positive association with the space. “If you only use it during stressful scenarios, they’re going to hate it,” she says.

Build their familiarity by taking shorter drives before a big trip to get them used to traveling in the crate. The crate also reduces the sensory overload they might get by looking out the window. “The crate is such a great tool to be able to have them decompress and actually relax in the car,” she says. “When you have more structure with a nervous dog, they feel safer.” 

If your car isn’t big enough for a crate, shop at a pet store for a specially designed harness or sling that attaches to a back seat buckle. 

Keep your lap free.

A car is not the place to cuddle. Driving with a cat or dog in your lap is dangerous enough to be outlawed in some states, and you should keep your animal out of the front seat anyway. Tempting as it is to interact by feeding, petting, or snapping photos of your pet, stay focused and keep both hands on the wheel. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that looking away from the road for only two seconds doubles your risk of being in a crash.

Cue a calming playlist.

In the same way that your pet can smell your stress hormones, they can also sense energy through music. A 2020 study by the Sydney School of Veterinary Science showed that calming music can reduce stress in dogs. Genres like classical, soft rock, reggae, and Motown were found to be soothing. “Heavy metal would not be the best option,” Uhlig says.

Schedule time outside.

Pets need pit stops, too. Start by giving them exercise and stimulation before you leave, so there's less chance they'll get antsy on the road and distract you. In the days leading up to a long drive and on the morning of, Uhlig says she gives her dogs plenty of exercise so “they’re already primed and ready for a nap.” For cats, build in time to play with toys and games.

Once you're on the road, be sure to pull over every few hours to let them relieve themselves, drink water, and sniff their surroundings. A break is good for both of you.

Watch the windows.

Dogs and cats can slip through surprisingly small spaces, so be mindful of how wide you crack car windows. Don't let your dog ride with their head sticking out of a window. It can be dangerous for the animal and a potential distraction for you. If it's hot outside, run the air conditioner and make sure you both get plenty of water.

Don’t leave your pet alone.

No matter what the temperature is outside, the interior of your car can be 10 to 50 degrees hotter. This depends on the time of day, where the car is parked, and the type of car. Leaving your pet unattended in the car can be dangerous for their health, causing heat stroke or brain damage, according to the Humane Society. It’s also illegal in some states, like Arizona and California. 

If you must dash quickly into a gas station on a cooler day, open all the windows (no bigger than a few finger’s width) to give them oxygen, Uhlig says. Otherwise, bring them with you.