As summer road trips roll in across the province, ICBC and BC SPCA have one reminder for drivers: don’t forget about your four-legged passengers.
The two organizations say that whether you are heading out for a long-haul road trip or daily commuting, even the most laid-back dog or cat needs to be safely secured.
“Many drivers consider a pet as part of their family,” said Kim Monteith, BC SPCA manager of animal welfare.
“When we bring our pets along for the ride, it’s our job to make sure they’re safe and secure. It’s a simple act of love that also keeps everyone else in the vehicle out of harm’s way.”
ICBC and the BC SPCA say using a safety harness or a firmly secured hard-shell crate could prevent serious injuries to pets as well as everyone else in the vehicles. It could also lower distractions while driving. It is also important to safely secure pets in the backseat and not to let them sit on drivers’ laps or in the front seat.
It is also illegal and dangerous to travel with a pet unsecured in the exterior of a pick-up truck. They say that if a driver has to have their pet in the back of a truck, the safest way is to have a secured crate.
They add that while it is tempting and cute to have a dog hang its head out a window while driving, this could lead to eye injuries due to weather, heavy wind, as well as objects and debris flying close to the vehicle.
They also advise keeping lots of toys, food, water, and bedding for pets in the car. As well as carry a pet first-aid kit.
Finally, ICBC and BC SPCA say that if a driver is not in the vehicle, their pets shouldn’t be either, as vehicles can heat up quickly with warmer temperatures.
“They trust us with everything, from belly rubs to big adventures,” said Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC road safety manager.
“When we bring our pets along for the ride, it’s our job to make sure they’re safe and secure. It’s a simple act of love that also keeps everyone else in the vehicle out of harm’s way.”
Something going on in the Cariboo you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
