I just went out yesterday to replace and old friend. An old friend that has been trusty, but wasn't holding up like she used to, and I thought every time my old friend and I hung out, I'd could potentially end up broken down.
I'm talking, of course, about my little S10 Truck.
That truck moved me from Ohio to Maine, from Maine to Boston, and multiple other people in different locations. It's hauled trees and dirt, bookcases, and dogs.
The more dog training I've been doing, and the more dogs I've been moving around the city, the more clear it became that this little truck just wasn't practical anymore. Plus, it just didn't feel safe to really drive anymore.
I ended up getting a new Jeep Compass - a more gas efficient jeep, with some great dog-friendly features (such as folding down seats that make a huge floor which is essentially 2/3's of the cabin & a hatchback type door that allows for easy access for dogs getting in and out).
While doing some research on cars and dogs, I came across this weeks episode of The Dog Trainers Quick And Dirty Tips - and you guessed it: it's all about cars and dog-safety.
Give it a listen, or read the transcript. I learned quite a bit, and will be changing my transportation habits immediately.
Safe Car Travel For Dogs
Hey Melissa - was just reading your blog post - we just recently bought this car harness for Roger (from Orvis and there was some mention of it being one of the only ones to be crash-tested - not sure how true that is - but it's a good harness - padded down the chest with a short strap, etc.): http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?Group_ID=10576&cat_id=10577&dir_id=1633&pf_id=0X67&scrdr=1&cm_ven=performics&cm_cat=TheFind%2C%20Inc.&cm_pla=&cm_ite=875&adv=875
ReplyDeleteThis is most helpful! Thanks for the link! How is Roger taking to a harness in the car?
ReplyDeleteHe adapted to it almost right away and now willingly stands in place for us to put it on him. He's actually much calmer with it on - he just sits in place looking out the window or lays down - versus before when he would run around in the back seat and/or try to get up front with us - it has made car rides much safer for us and him and A LOT more relaxing! :) We initially got it because Alan has a Jeep, and we needed to ensure Roger's safety when we have the top down this summer - but now, we love it so much, and we realized that we should use it all the time anyway (not just when the top is down). I'm probably going to get another one to keep in my car too!
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