In reference to the May 11 Herald story on booster seats. The girls pictured don’t look too happy. But at least it’s in the name of safety; and that should always be the main concern. Now what about their precious dog Chloe? Doesn’t she deserve to be buckled up as well?
As we approach the busy travel season, please remember to secure your pets in the car. In an accident, pets can become projectiles, potentially injuring other passengers. They can also be ejected from the vehicle, just like unsecured humans. Some pets also hinder the driver. They can get on the floorboard by the pedals, or ride on the driver’s lap, interfering with their vision. Sometimes, they put their paws on the steering wheel. Lest we forget the recent accident in Snohomish caused by the two dogs fighting in the van?
My Cavalier Spaniel doesn’t go anywhere with me without his seatbelt fastened. There are many makers of canine seatbelts. The nice thing about the belts are that they offer freedom of movement. The dog is exposed to human hands, free to receive plenty of caressing pets during the trip. Another option is to crate the dog. (Or other small animals.) If you can’t belt the crate down; try and place it on the floorboard, between seats.
So please everyone, if you really love your pets (as of course, we all do), make them as secure as possible whenever they ride, even on short trips. Trust me, Fido will get along just fine without hanging his head out the window. He will still love you just as much when you reach the end of your trip.
Perry Young
Everett
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