According to a AAA/Best Western survey, 85 percent of dog owners and 21 percent of cat owners travel with their fur babies. Dogs are the most common traveling companion, heading to the beach, camping and hiking. The survey also found that 28 percent of those asked preferred traveling with their pet than with their significant other. When traveling with your pet, you want to make sure that both you and the pet are safe and comfortable. These three vehicles have excellent safety features and benefits that make them extra-pet friendly.
Pet Passengers: 3 Vehicles That Are Prime for Fur Babies Too
Subaru Outback
With a rear lift gate that lets your dog jump in and out as well as making it easier to load kennels and carriers, the Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for fur baby travel. The vehicle has rear cargo-attachment rings to keep your pet’s kennel or carrier secure. Because it has all-wheel drive, the Outback works well in wintery weather if you and your pet enjoy outdoor activities in the snow.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The car appears small from the outside but has a surprisingly spacious interior. The rear seats fold flat so if your fur baby is large, you can provide them with extra room. Volkswagen also offers an optional dog barrier so they are less likely to distract you while you are driving. Consider adding a sunroof for extra air circulation for your pet.
Nissan Rogue Dogue
The vehicle features no-spill water bowls and a treat dispenser. The cargo bay is spacious with a slide-out ramp and clip-on harnesses that keep the dogs in place. There is even an integrated shower and dryer that is perfect for removing mud and sand after trips into the woods or to the beach. The upholstery is easy to clean as well. The “Dog-Cam” allows your dog to see you via a 10-inch screen in the cargo area while a seven-inch screen lets you keep an eye on the dog and even speak to them through an audio link. Although the vehicle is not ready for purchase at this time, the Nissan Juke offers easy-to-clean seats, a spacious cargo area and a dog guard between the seats.
One of the best ways to keep your pet safe is to crate them or place them in carriers that are secured to the vehicle. In addition, you want to be sure your vehicle is well-maintained, by professionals like those at Evans Tire & Service Centers, to avoid any emergencies while traveling with your pet. Your pets are part of your family and you want to be sure they are as safe as everyone else in the vehicle.
Chelsea m
Saturday 12th of August 2017
I'm not sure a Volkswagen would be roomy enough for two pitbulls. I do like that the sunroof that make sit seem more open though.
Mary
Friday 11th of August 2017
I can understand why more dogs travel; cats hate it. I want a vacation desperately. I haven't had one in 11 yrs., but my cat is scared of everybody except me. He hasn't got over it in 10 yrs., so won't. He doesn't eat unless I am with him still. Yesterday when I came home from surgery, I found he hadn't eaten a bite or drank either. He stayed inside a hole in the futon as usual. I can't take him with me. So I'm in a quandary.