The Importance of Car Safety - In Memory of Nimbus

I want to start this post with a heartfelt reminder about the importance of dog safety in vehicles. Recently, our community experienced a tragic loss with the passing of Nimbus, a beloved dog who wasn’t secured while riding in a car. This heartbreaking event has inspired me to share some crucial information about keeping our furry friends safe during travel.

Many of us, myself included, have made the mistake of letting our dogs ride unrestrained. Whether it's a short trip to the park or a long road trip, we often assume nothing will go wrong. However, accidents can and do happen, and an unsecured dog can become seriously injured or worse.

Even small fender benders can put your dog at risk if they aren't properly restrained. That's why it's crucial to use either a reliable crash-tested crate or a safe seatbelt with a harness when traveling with your dog.

The Only Crate I Trust for Travel

When it comes to keeping your dog safe in the car, I wholeheartedly recommend Gunner Kennels. They are hands down the best option on the market for several reasons:

1. Crash-Tested and Proven
   Gunner Kennels have been crash-tested and proven to withstand serious accidents. In one of many survival cases, two dogs survived a severe car accident because they were in their Gunner Kennels. The truck was completely totaled, but their crates only had minor scuffs, demonstrating the strength and reliability of these kennels.

2. Durability You Can Count On
   Gunner Kennels are built from rotomolded plastic, making them incredibly tough and durable. Unlike wire crates, these kennels are designed to handle extreme forces, ensuring your dog stays protected.

3. Comfort and Security
   While safety is the main focus, Gunner Kennels also provide a comfortable space for your dog to relax during travel. The secure design prevents escape, so you can drive with peace of mind knowing your dog is both safe and comfortable.

4. Investing in Safety
   I know these crates can be expensive, but when you consider the amount of care and love you invest in your dog’s training, diet, and well-being, it’s worth making the investment to protect their life on the road. Sometimes we think accidents won’t happen to us, but tragedies like the recent one remind us that it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

How to Choose the Right Size of Kennel

When selecting a travel kennel, it’s crucial to choose one that’s smaller than your dog’s everyday house crate. For example, Arya and Skyla use 42" wire crates at home, but for travel, they use Intermediate-sized Gunner Kennels. A snug fit is safer for car rides because it minimizes movement during sudden stops or accidents.

The kennel should allow your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably, but that’s it—extra space can lead to unnecessary movement, increasing the risk of injury. A smaller travel crate ensures your dog stays secure and protected while on the road.

Here are some helpful tips and breed references to guide your decision:

1. Gunner Kennel Sizes:

   • Small (G1): Ideal for smaller breeds like Dachshunds and French Bulldogs.
   • Intermediate (G2): Perfect for medium breeds such as Beagles and Cocker Spaniels, as well as larger dogs like Arya (Doberman Pinscher) and Skyla (Belgian Malinois).
   • Large (G3): Suited for larger breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers.
   • Extra Large (G4): Best for extra-large breeds such as Great Danes or Mastiffs.

2. Measurement Guidelines: When selecting a kennel, measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and from the ground to the top of their head when standing. This will help you determine the right size for them.

3. Safety First: Remember, a snug fit not only keeps your dog secure but also reduces the risk of distraction for the driver. A properly sized kennel helps your dog stay calm and collected during the ride, ensuring a smoother journey for everyone.

Do’s and Don’ts of Safe Car Travel with Dogs

Ensuring your dog’s safety on the road is more than just using a crate or harness—it’s about understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps to prevent accidents. Here are some key Do’s and Don’ts for traveling with your dog:

DO:

1. Use a Crash-Tested Crate
   Invest in a high-quality, crash-tested crate like Gunner Kennels to keep your dog safe during car rides. These crates are designed to protect your dog in the event of an accident.

2. Secure Your Dog with a Seatbelt and Harness
   If a crate isn’t an option due to financial restraints, use a seatbelt and harness specifically designed for this purpose. This helps keep your dog safely restrained and prevents distractions to allow you to drive safely. 

3. Position Your Dog in the Back Seat
   Always place your dog in the back seat of the car. This is the safest location for them, away from airbags that could cause injury in a crash.

4. Take Regular Breaks on Long Trips
   Ensure your dog has plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and drink water during longer journeys.

DON’T:

1. DON’T Let Your Dog Ride Loose in the Car
   Never allow your dog to roam freely inside the car. Unrestrained dogs are at risk of serious injury in a crash and can become a dangerous distraction for the driver.

2. DON’T Attach a Seatbelt to Your Dog’s Collar
   Avoid using a seatbelt with a standard collar. In the event of an accident, this could cause strangulation or severe neck injuries.

3. DON’T Allow Your Dog to Ride in the Front Seat
   Even if they’re restrained, keep your dog out of the front seat. Airbags are designed for adults, and a deploying airbag can seriously harm your dog.

4. DON’T Use Regular Wire Crates for Car Travel
   Wire crates are not crash-safe and can collapse or break apart in an accident. Opt for a sturdy, crash-tested crate designed for travel instead.

5. DON’T Let Your Dog Hang Out of the Window
   Although dogs love the fresh air, letting them stick their head out of the window puts them at risk of injury from debris or sudden stops.

As we navigate the joys and challenges of being pet owners, let’s carry Nimbus’s memory with us as a powerful reminder to prioritize our dogs' safety. We can’t predict when accidents will happen, but we can take steps to protect our furry friends and ensure they stay safe on the road. Every trip, whether long or short, deserves our full attention when it comes to securing them.

Investing in a high-quality travel crate like Gunner Kennels or using a secure harness and seatbelt is essential. Not only does this safeguard your dog, but it also reduces the risk of distraction, making the journey safer for everyone in the vehicle. By making safe travel a priority, we can create a protective environment for our pets and enjoy many more adventures together.

I encourage all dog owners to embrace these safety measures, ensuring our furry companions remain safe and secure on every journey. Together, we can honor Nimbus’s legacy by committing to responsible practices that keep our beloved pets protected.

Keara Brown
Founder & Professional Dog Trainer
K9 Odyssey