How owners keep their dogs happy on car journeys

MORE than one in three pet owners take their dogs or cats on car journeys on a regular basis, a new study shows.

Of those surveyed by Confused.com, 41 per cent said their pets enjoyed the journey.

Listening to the radio was one method pet owners used to keep their companions amused on longer journeys with Adele, Madonna and Lady Gaga the most popular artists.

Others admitted to singing to their pets and taking plenty of toys to keep them amused. 

While 12 per cent of pet owning motorists said they let their dog stick its head out of the window, experts at Dogs Trust say this is not necessarily a good idea.

“Dogs might really enjoy the sensation of having their heads out of the window, but it is dangerous for them so we would always advise keeping ears, paws and noses inside the vehicle while the car is moving,” said Veterinary Director Paula Boyden.

Almost 10 per cent of pet owners have almost had an accident when driving because of their pet’s behaviour.

“Road trips should be as fun for our pets as they can be for us and keeping our pets happy in the back is also going to reduce distraction for us as drivers, making our journeys safer for us and our animals,” said Gareth Kloet, Head of Car Insurance at Confused.com.

For more information go to http://www.confused.com/press/releases/Keep-canines-comfortable-in-cars