Protecting your pet in the car

Are you planning to take your cat or dog along for a ride in your car? Pets are an important part of the family, and you want to ensure they have the protection they need with pet insurance.

Car safety tips for your pet

We've prepared some car safety tips below:

Before you leave

• Pack a water bottle and bowl for your pet.
• Plan to make frequent stops to allow your pet to go to the bathroom and get some exercise.
• If you bring a cat, make sure you transport it in a carrier.

On the road

Pets should not be allowed to ride on the driver’s lap or near the driver’s feet:

• Small pets should be confined in carriers or in travel-safe dog beds. Larger pets should be appropriately restrained with harnesses attached to the car’s seat belts.
• Do not allow your pet to ride with its head outside the window. Dirt and other debris can get into its eyes and cause damage or infections.
• Do not let your pet ride around in the back of a truck. If your pet must ride in the truck bed, it should be confined in a protective kennel that is secured to the truck.

Summertime tips

If a pet is left in a vehicle on a warm day, the temperature inside can reach up to 250 C degrees—hot enough to cook a turkey! If you see a pet that has been left in a hot area, you should watch for signs of heat exhaustion. Symptoms may include: a dark tongue, rapid pulse, fever, vomiting, glazed eyes, dizziness, or lack of coordination. If you think your dog is experiencing heat exhaustion, move it to the shade or an air-conditioned area. If the symptoms are severe, take the animal to a vet immediately.

What should you do if you see an animal trapped in a car on a hot day?

If possible, try to find the vehicle owner as they may not be aware their pet is in distress. Call 911 to reach emergency services or call your local SPCA. In Alberta, the number is: 1-800-455-9003, and the Ontario number is: 1-888-668-7722.

Do not attempt to break into a car. The police, fire department and emergency medical services are the only people with authority to break into a car in an emergency.

What about other types of transportation with a pet?

A car isn’t the only way to get around, especially in the summer months. If you are taking your pet along for the ride in a plane or boat, keep reading for more safety tips:

Keeping your pet safe on a plane

Taking your pet on a plane can be stressful for the pet and the owner! Here are a few tips if you’re bringing your furry friend with you on a plane:

• Before you leave, make sure you read all the rules and regulations for the specific airline you’re flying. Each airline has different guidelines, so check their website, or call them to make sure you’re following their rules.
• Visit the vet before flying to make sure your pet is cleared to travel. Some airlines require a health certificate, but it’s a good step to take even if they don’t.
• Check the measurements of your carrier to make sure it’s the right size for the flight you’ll be taking. You should also check your pet has enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.
• Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date in case they get lost during travel. You can also write your contact details on the carrier, as well as your pet’s name.
• It’s a good idea to feed your pet four hours before the flight. Don’t forget to bring water for them to drink!

Keeping your pet safe on a boat

If you’re planning a day of fun in the sun that includes a boat, why not bring your pet along? They’ll love the adventure! It’s perfectly safe to bring your pet out on the water, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Most pets will be fine on a boat, but not all are comfortable in the water. Certain breeds of animals are more adapted to swimming than others, so ask your vet beforehand.
• Don’t force your pet to go in the water or throw them in. Before getting in the boat, allow them to explore the water, especially if it’s their first time. Understand their swimming abilities before getting on a boat.
• Give your pet time to explore the boat before a trip. Let them sniff around and get comfortable with their surroundings. If it’s their first time on a boat, consider a shorter trip in case they get sick or scared.
• Consider getting your pet a life jacket. Your pet may decide to jump in the water, and a life jacket can help them stay afloat if they don’t know how to swim, protect them from hypothermia in cold water, and make it easier to retrieve your pet from the water.

Contact a pet insurance company for a free pet insurance quote

Ready to learn more? BrokerLink can help. We have partnered with Fetch (a leading pet insurance provider in Canada). Get in touch with Fetch today or get a free quote online today. Using Fetch’s online quote tool, you can receive an accurate and competitive estimate on your pet insurance policy in minutes.

Get a pet insurance quote 1-866-381-1946