Get Ready to Hit the Road With Your Dog! 7 Must-Have Items for a Fun and Safe Car Ride

Stephanie Wan Editorial Date:

Heading off on new adventures with our dogs often involves spending a good amount of time in the car together. Here are 7 must-have items to make car rides more safe and enjoyable for our furry friends!

1. Seat Belt Harness

EzyDog Drive Dog Car Harness

The number one rule in the car: always wear a seat belt! Just like humans, it’s always a good idea to keep your dog restrained in the car in case of any accidents. The EzyDog Drive Dog Car Harness is an easy to use, crash tested harness. Simply slip your car’s seat belt through the handles on the top of the harness and buckle it in! The ergonomic molded chest plate keeps your dog comfortable and the Dual SR Buckle closure system ensures a secure harness fit. You can attach your leash to the double D-rings to safely walk your dog to and from the car. Remember to check the harness often for any signs of damage, and replace it if necessary.

2. Seat Cover

Solvit Premium Bucket Seat Cover for Dogs

Keep your car clean and your dog comfortable using the Solvit Premium Bucket Seat Cover for Dogs. This cover is made from 100% cotton twill with quilting and trimmed with genuine leather accents for a beautiful finish that is comfortable and durable. The SmartFit™ system, including non-slip backing and Sta-Put™ seat anchors, make sure the cover fits well in all vehicles and stays in place. Seat belt slits allow you to buckle up safely even with the cover on. Protect your car’s upholstery while enjoying the ride with your dog!

3. Backseat Barrier

Kurgo Backseat Barrier

We love giving our dogs attention but when we’re driving we can’t let them distract us. The Kurgo Backseat Barrier attaches to the back of your car’s front seat, creating a simple cloth barrier that prevents your furry friend from climbing to the front of the vehicle. It is easy to install and doesn’t need to be removed when you have human passengers. Keep your dog safe in the backseat so you can focus on getting to your next adventure!

4. Pet Carrier

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

A pet carrier can be used to keep your furry friend safely enclosed during the car journey. The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is crash-tested, and has velcro positioning points that secure a seat belt in place. It can be transformed from car seat to carrier bag to pet bed. The padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, and the removable mesh dome  allows you to instantly convert between carrier and bed. Reduce the stress of travel by transporting your furry friend in their own bed!

5. Ramp

Happy Ride Telescoping Pet Ramp

A Happy Ride Telescoping Pet Ramp makes it safer for your dog to get in and out of the car by themselves. It has adjustable sizing to adapt to different vehicles, and is lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to store. Traction on the surface prevents your dog from slipping or falling on the ramp.

6. Booster Seat

Solvit Deluxe Tagalong Booster Seat

For small dogs, the Solvit Deluxe Tagalong Booster Seat lets them enjoy more of the view from the car. This simple to install booster seat attaches securely to any vehicle with headrests and includes safety loops for attaching to the seat belt. The seat itself contains a padded interior and internal harness and leash attachment to make sure your furry friend stays safe. The liner can be easily removed for convenient cleaning. This booster seat fits pets up to 8kg.

7. First Aid Kit

Alcott Adventure First Aid Kit

Something important to keep in your car is a well-stocked first aid kit. The Alcott Adventure First Aid Kit contains first aid items for dogs and humans, and will help with minor injuries, cuts, bites, and stings. With supplies including antiseptic wipes, non-adhesive dressing, bandaids, and an emergency blanket, you can be prepared to treat or keep your furry friend stable and comfortable on the way to the vet in case of any accidents. The 46-piece kit is packed in a convenient bag, easy to store in your car or even bring along with you in your backpack.

Start your engines and get ready for your next adventure with your dog!