With the great weather that summer brings fast approaching, it’ll give us even more reasons to spend some quality time with our pets. However, keeping those pets safe while travelling, whether it be by car, boat or plane, should be the owners’ highest priority. Bark Buckle UP is an organization that has become the recognized innovative leader and expert in pet travel safety in the U.S. and Canada. It rigorously tests and certifies all manner of pet safety belts and systems, and those that pass are awarded the Bark Buckle UP Pet Safety badge.
Here are six pet safety products recommended by Bark Buckle UP to help make your pet safer in your car or truck. For more information on Bark Buckle Up, visit the website at www.barkbuckleup.com.
The Ruff Rider Roadie
The Ruff Rider’s Canine Vehicle Restraint Harness stands up to forces during sudden stops, sharp turns, and the unexpected bumps and thumps of everyday life. The “Roadie” model ($24.95 US) is quick and easy to take off, and attaches to any vehicle’s existing seatbelt system.
For more information, visit ruffrider.com. Canadians can order directly by calling 720-249-2986.
Volvo travel barrier system
While designed specifically for the Volvo XC90 SUV, this steel cargo compartment wall enables you to separate the cargo compartment longitudinally, and so have two cargo compartments in one. This is ideal for travelling with your pet and luggage, or two pets, one on either side. The safety grille has been collision tested, and satisfies Volvo’s resistance requirements for approximately 1650 kg.
For more information on pricing, visit volvocanada.com.
Sleepypod mobile pet bed
This option for smaller dogs is actually an ultra-luxurious bed that incorporates easy-to-use travel elements that are easier and less stressful for everyone.
To safely transport your pet in the car, simply wrap the seatbelt around the base of the Sleepypod and pull the shoulder belt through the top handle. You can also get a plug-in warmer, and blankets. The Sleepypod runs for $165 US, but for more information on Canadian availability and pricing, visit sleepypod.com.
TO go bowl
Nothing is worse on a long car ride than having a thirsty dog that can’t get a proper drink on the run. The To Go Bowl ($19.95 US) solves that problem by fitting into your car’s cup holder, or on the ground during pit stops. It comes complete with a splashguard and lid to reduce spilling, and its design allows for storage of treats or dry dog food in its removable base. For more information on Canadian availability and prices, visit furrytravelers.com.
Pet tube car kennel
The Pet Tube is perfect for dogs that don’t like being restrained into one spot by a seatbelt. It’s a lightweight but super-strong fabric kennel that provides a smart and stylish solution to travelling freely with your pets. It comes in a useful tube shape in two sizes, the larger of which can be used partially at one or two thirds of its total length, thus solving space problems on the back seat.
The Pet Tube’s two sizes are $76 US or $146 US, but for Canadian pricing and availability, visit petego.com.
