Selecting a dog vehicle harness

When selecting a harness for your dog you should know your dogs body measurements and weight as well as how your car is fitted out so you know whereabouts you will attach the harness inside the vehicle. Ideally you would take your dog along to be fitted for a harness. When fitted correctly it will not be too tight or loose on him and he be secured in a way he’s not going to get tangled up. Swivel style attachments with a short tether can help alleviate this.

Although there are a number of products on the market for car doggy travel quality of materials and design is paramount and as the old saying goes… You usually get what you pay for. To see how different designs vary in effectiveness you can find some footage of (canine imitation) crash test dummies wearing harnesses on the following link. In the event of an accident your dog will become a moving missile. This viewing is not for children.

http://www.centerforpetsafety.org/test-results/harnesses/2013-harness-crash-test-videos/

You cannot always rely on a shop assistant to correctly fit your dog’s harness so if you have any concerns speak to the manufacturer. If you take your dog on the back of a utility he still must be secured and care should be taken to ensure no load could potentially slide onto him. Please provide surface or matting which will not burn his feet as trays heat up in the sun. His nose should not be able to reach past the side of the tray. Cages are strongly recommended for open vehicles.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)