There's more to travelling with dogs
than the inescapable hairs that are left behind. Have you ever thought about whether your dog's breed actually
affects how much they like to travel or how well they can deal with it? This is the theory of Steve Mann, a dog
psychologist based in Hertfordshire.
Mann believes that, depending on the breed of your dog, you could be facing
varying levels of difficulty when it comes to getting your dog to be well behaved enough to travel. "Herding breeds
such as Collies can get over stimulated, wanting to chase and nip every passing bike," he explained. The worst
travellers are Alsatians, however. Not because of behaviour, but because they have very delicate digestive systems
and can get easily sick.
All dogs can get anxious at the prospect of travelling in the car. However there
are times when travelling in the car, dog in tow, cannot be avoided so Mann recommends getting your dog to
associate travel with a positive outcome "The first car trip for most dogs will be the one taking it from its
mother. Car trip two will be vaccinations, the third back-up jabs. But these memories can be softened by food upon
arrival," Mann told the Telegraph.
When it comes to dog car safety the
RSPCA have these recommendations:
- Make sure the dog is secure. You can use a dog car crate or
harness.
- When transporting your dog in a crate or container, you should ensure that it
has enough room to sit and stand up at full height, turn around easily and lie down in a natural
position.
- Prevent the dog from slipping around during the journey using suitable
bedding
Dog Car Safety & The Law
Legally the Welfare of Animals (Transport) (England)
Order 2006 (that's how it must be referred to apparently) requires you not to:
(1) transport any animal in a way which causes, or is likely to
cause, injury or unnecessary suffering to that animal.
(2) transport any animal except in such receptacles or means of
transport, under conditions (in particular with regard to space,
ventilation, temperature and security) and with such supply of liquid and
oxygen, as are appropriate for the species concerned.
Do take care when travelling with your dog and please ensure your 'dog car safety'
list is properly checked.
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Article written by Alexander K
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sources:
The Telegraph
The RSPCA
Office of Public Sector Information
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