The Dog is Fine ... But Beware of the Driver!

This dog is a dangerous distraction!

At PetLynx, our goal is to help get (and keep) pets HomeSafe ... and we were surprised to learn that a recent study revealed that 2/3 of dog owners admit to engaging in distracting activities with their dogs while driving!

Dogs are wonderful companions and can be fun to bring along for a car ride. However, this can mean added distractions for the driver. A recent survey conducted by the American Auto Association (AAA) asked dog owners how often they drive with their dog and about their habits behind the wheel.

The survey found that drivers not only love to bring Fido along, but they also often engage in risky behaviors when man's best friend is along for the ride.

• 31% of respondents admit to being distracted by their dog while driving
• 59% have participated in at least one distracting behavior while driving with their dog
• 55% pet their dog while driving
• 21% allowed their dog to sit in their lap

Other distracting behaviors drivers admitted to include: giving food and water to their dog (seven percent) and playing with their dog (five percent). These behaviors can distract the driver and increase the risk of a crash. 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.

Unrestrained dogs are dangerous to the driver, passengers and man's best friend.

An overwhelming 80 percent of respondents stated that they have driven with their pets on a variety of car trips including day trips, local errands and leisure trips, the pet store, dog parks and to work. However, only 17 percent use any form of pet restraint system when driving with their dog. Use of a

pet restraint system, such as specially design pet seat belts or crates, can aid in limiting distractions and help protect your pet.

"Restraining your pet when driving can not only help protect your pet, but you and other passengers in your vehicle as well," cautioned Beth Mosher, AAA Director of Public Affairs. "An unrestrained 10-pound dog in a crash at 50 mph will exert roughly 500 pounds of pressure, while an unrestrained

80-pound dog in a crash at only 30 mph will exert 2,400 pounds of pressure. Imagine the devastation that can cause to your pet and anyone in the vehicle in its path."

There are a variety of reasonably priced products available to help dog owners reduce distractions their pets might cause while driving while keeping them safe. There have been many recent innovations in this market from Kurgo and others to make these products more comfortable for the dog and convenient to use for the owner. AAA recommends owners utilize a restraint system anytime they are driving with their pet.

Pet restraint products, such as those from Kurgo, are available at local pet stores nationwide. To find a dealer near you, visit Kurgo.com.

Posted by Terri Perrin, Online Communications Editor