Safety Fur-st!

For most of us, the recent Easter celebrations meant that a great many people hit the roads to go away on holiday. But have you given thought to how to travel safely with your four-legged family members? Or are you more inclined to stay at home due to fears about their safety?

A recent survey carried out by Volvo in the United States shows that around a third of drivers worry about the safety of their pets in the car whilst driving, with almost half of those questioned not having safety gear for their pets when they are travelling. 

The figures are similar for the UK, too, with Dogs Trust estimating that 48% of dog owners could be breaking the Highway Code by not properly restraining their dogs whilst in the car. Whilst nearly 60% of people feel that having an unrestrained dog in a vehicle is dangerous, one in five owners regularly travel with their dogs unrestrained! In a survey conducted by Direct Line, 22% of vets questioned said travelling without proper restraint was the main cause of injury or death of pets involved in a traffic accident. 

Rule 57 of the Highway Code clearly states: "When in a vehicle, make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly."

There are a number of ways to keep Fido safe and secure, minimise doggy distractions, and put your mind at ease while driving. If you want to have your pooch travel in the back seat of your vehicle, you can get a special dog harness that can be attached to a fastened seat belt, as shown below. It is recommended that your dog sits behind the front passenger seat, so that they are less likely to be a distraction to the driver, or the middle seat for cars that have rear and side airbags.

Although most estate cars and SUVs come with a built-in luggage guard, these will not suffice in keeping your pet secure, should you be involved in an accident. And if you think the worst that could happen is that your dog slips and slides into the back of the seats, you're very wrong. An untethered dog weighing just 50lbs (just under 23kg) – that's about the same as a Basset Hound, or a Springer Spaniel – would be thrown with the force of a 1500lb projectile if you crashed at only 35mph (1). For peace of mind, a crash crate offers even more protection, and is particularly effective against rear-end collisions or shunts. Some, such as the TransK9, even have an emergency hatch, so your dog can be removed even if the rear doors are blocked in a collision. It's also a good idea to add some external stickers or signs indicating that you have a dog on board; at the very least, other dog owners will probably give you a little extra consideration on the road!

Our book Dogs on wheels is packed full of useful information for travelling with your canine companion. From helpful advice, insights into your dog's world; guidance on choosing the right vehicle and pet restraints, this book covers it all. If you are still unsure about how to travel safely with your dog, you can discuss the matter with your vet – or a specialist supplier – for the best options available to you, your pet, and your vehicle.  

Be sure that all members of your family are safe and secure for the long road ahead!

(1) Katherine Miller, Director of Applied Science and Research for the ASPCA

Subaru Loves Pets

A refreshing approach from an automotive giant

Auto company Subaru will be familiar to many people. Producing vehicles since the early 1950s, its rallying exploits have given it legendary status in the motorsports arena, and its cars have acquired a very apt nickname, for us animal lovers: Scoobies! Well, it just so happens that Scooby Doo … sorry, Subaru … also loves pets, just like us. Over half of all Subaru drivers are also pet owners, and, this month, Subaru America launched its 'Subaru Loves Pets' initiative.

Subaru Loves Pets is part of its 'Love Promise' programme, a commitment to safety that includes ensuring drivers and pedestrians are safe through in-vehicle safety, and minimising environmental impact with eco-centred technology. Of course, Subaru also recognises that pets deserve the care, respect, and help of companies such as itself … after all, they're part of the family, too.

Working with a number of partners, including local animal organisations, retailers, pet equipment manufacturers, and pilots, Subaru is doing its best to help animals in need across the US. Why not take a few minutes to read about all of the fantastic efforts that Subaru and its partners are making to help spread a little more 'animal magic' …

Subaru of America celebrates its love of pets during October "Subaru Loves Pets" initiative

Throughout October, Subaru works with several partners to help improve the safety and wellbeing of pets in need

Cherry Hill, N.J. -  This October, Subaru of America, Inc. has once again kicked off its “Subaru Loves Pets” initiative as part of the brand’s Love Promise platform. More than half of Subaru drivers are also pet owners, and the automaker remains committed to keeping the entire family safe, including beloved pets. As part of this commitment to animal welfare, Subaru retailers across the country will activate several programs that will help animals in need.

Pet Supply Drive

In celebration of “Subaru Loves Pets”, Subaru retailers across the nation will work hand-in-hand with local animal organizations to host pet supply drives in order to help support animals who lack the necessary materials to live healthy and happy lives. As a team, the retailer and local animal organizations will collect critical items, such as pet food and treats, toys, dog beds, grooming supplies, collars, harnesses, leashes, and more, to give to animals in need and in turn, increase their overall chances of adoption. Throughout October, Subaru encourages customers to visit their local retailer and snap a photo with their furry friend with a fun pet-friendly photo frame, or sign up to volunteer at a local animal organization. As a token of appreciation, Subaru retailers will gift those who donate an all-new 2017 Impreza dog toy, while supplies last. For more information on how you can help pets in your area, please visit your local Subaru retailer to find out how you can get involved.

Pilots N Paws

As part of its longstanding partnership with Pilots N Paws, an organization devoted to rescuing thousands of shelter animals surrendered in the United States, Subaru has once again supported its annual flyway mission, during which pilots transport at-risk animals from kill shelters to no-kill shelters, foster care and new pet parents. During this year’s rescue mission, which took place on October 1st in Kennesaw, GA, the automaker assisted with ground transportation, food and accommodations for pilots, as well as travel kits for the rescued animals’ journey to safety. With the help of 40 pilots and 40 planes, the mission successfully transported over 220 dogs and cats to safe havens and loving homes. For more information about Pilots N Paws and to volunteer for a future event, visit www.pilotsnpaws.org.

Pet Philanthropy Circle – 2016 Pet Hero Awards 

For the fifth consecutive year, Subaru will partner with The Pet Philanthropy Circle and support its mission to improve animals’ quality of life, by generating greater public awareness around their welfare during the annual Pet Hero Awards. Subaru has been the exclusive vehicle of the organization since its inaugural year, and will sponsor the 5th annual Pet Philanthropy Pet Hero Awards on October 7th in New York City. The Pet Hero Awards celebrate individuals, associations, professionals, pets and business organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving and protecting animals’ lives. To learn more about the Pet Heroes Awards, purchase tickets or view this year’s award recipients, visit www.petphilanthropycircle.org/petheroawards.html.

“Subaru Loves Pets is all about showing our pets the love that they show us each and every day,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. “We are very pleased to partner with organizations like Pilots N Paws, The Pet Philanthropy Circle and many local animal welfare groups, to help improve the health and well-being of animals across the country, and help them to find new homes.”

For information about Subaru Loves Pets and to find out more about the partners that Subaru supports, visit http://www.subaru.com/pets/.

So, as you can see, Subaru really is doing its bit for animal welfare. Hopefully, it won't be the only company to realise the importance of pets and animals … WELL DONE SUBARU!