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Pets on the move. Top tips for stress-free car journeys
Owning a dog or pet has never been so popular in Singapore, in the last ten years the number of dog licences has risen by more than 30 percent.
But, in our busy city, how do you get your pet out and about safely and without stress?
This is Budget Direct Insurance’s guide to pets on the move!
In the car
Animals must be restrained in the car. If not, it can be distracting or they could jump on you and cause an accident.
1. Always secure your pet, don’t let them travel in the front seat with their nose sticking out of the window. This may look cute but in the event of an accident it won’t be pretty!
2. Get a harness for your dog rather than just a collar that could strangle them if you have to break hard. A harness will protect the neck and spine and get one with a loop that you can thread through a seat belt.
3. A small dog can fit into a dog booster seat and ensures him or her a better view! The animal is secured with your car’s seat belt and dog seat belt, which you attach to the harness.
4. A crate is by far the safest way to secure your pet. A hard-sided crate secured with a seatbelt will protect your pet in the event of an accident, or if you have to brake unexpectedly. Make sure your pet gets used to the crate by trying it out at home before placing it in the car.
5. Fit a travel guard or pet barrier in the boot of your car if you have a hatchback.
Pets and the heat
Never leave your pet in the car unattended. The temperature can soar very quickly. The Australian pet charity RSPCA recently ran an awareness campaign advising dogs can die in a hot car within six minutes, even if parked in the shade.
Public transport
The SPCA in Singapore is campaigning for public transport to become more pet friendly, but at present it is not allowed to take your pet on the MRT or buses.
By taxi
Some dog owners report difficulty in hailing down a cab when accompanied by their dog. Try booking ahead but warn the taxi firm you have a dog, better to be upfront and pay a little extra for your pet. Some taxi drivers may not take dogs on religious grounds, and all will insist they sit in the floor by your feet.
Some taxi firms specialise in transporting pets, but make sure you accompany them and you will need to book. Some offer a 24-hour service in case you need to take your pet to the vet in an emergency. Check prices and do some research on service standards.
