Understanding the importance of travel safety for dogs
In an era of dog care services, staycations, and increased pet transport, dogs are becoming road companions more than ever.
Keeping dogs safe whilst in transit isn’t solely the responsibility of pet owners; it’s equally important for dog professionals. Whether you’re a pet sitter, dog walker, trainer, or a groomer, ensuring the well-being of dogs during transportation is paramount.
So stay tuned as we delve into the world of travel safety, sharing tips and insights. We’ll also discuss Transk9’s dog travel solutions and how they can significantly enhance your dog’s safety, security and comfort during journeys.
Prioritising your dog’s safety during travel is crucial for several important reasons:
Preventing injuries
Just as humans wear seatbelts in vehicles, dogs need to be secured to prevent injuries in case of sudden stops, turns, or accidents. Loose dogs can be thrown around the vehicle, leading to serious injuries to themselves and potentially to passengers as well.
Reducing distractions
Distracted driving can lead to accidents, so it’s essential to do your best to minimise them. As a professional dog handler who is transporting multiple dogs, ensuring their safety and comfort is vital.
Minimising stress
Travel can be stressful for dogs due to unfamiliar environments, noises, and motion sickness. Properly secured and comfortable accommodation, can help alleviate their anxiety by providing a safe and familiar space. Using positive reinforcement techniques will really help dogs and puppies in getting used to being in a car cage, creating a safe haven.
This involves associating the cage with positive experiences and rewards. For example, you can place treats, toys, or their favorite blanket inside the crate and encourage them to explore it voluntarily. Rewarding them with praise and treats when they enter the crate willingly helps create a positive association with the space, making it less daunting for them during travel or when they need to be contained. This gradual approach can significantly reduce their stress and anxiety.
Complying with dog travel laws
There are laws and regulations in effect that require dogs to be restrained while travelling in vehicles. Failing to comply with these laws may result in fines and penalties. Plus, if you’re in an accident and can’t show you complied with this law, your insurance might not cover it. Rule 57 of the Highway Code 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. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or a dog guard are all different ways of keeping dogs contained and safe in cars.
Promoting responsible and professional dog care
Prioritising the well-being of your client’s dog, during travel is a fundamental aspect of a responsible Dog Pro. It demonstrates care and consideration for the dogs you are looking after and the safety of others on the road.
Introducing Transk9 – Leaders in Canine Travel Safety
Transk9 is one of the most reputable companies specialising in designing and manufacturing crash-tested dog crates, with a mission centred around enhancing the safety and comfort of dogs during transit.
Founded in 2003 and based in Scotland, it didn’t take long for Transk9 to become a respected and trusted name in dog travel solutions. Being a family-run business, they bring together exceptional quality and a personal touch that sets them apart in the industry.
We talked with Sharon Marshall, one of the co-founders of Transk9. Here’s what she had to say about the importance of keeping dogs safe during transport.
‘Regrettably, a considerable number of people don’t know or may not fully understand, the legal and safety implications associated with not securely restraining dogs during transit. This lack of awareness can put the dog and the people sharing the road at risk.’
Sharon Marshell from TransK9
She continues..
At TransK9, our commitment to pet safety and the well-being of dogs is our top priority. Our professional crates play a pivotal role in promoting safe and efficient interactions with dogs, offering a range of benefits that make transportation so much easier and stress-free.
One of the many notable features of TransK9 crates is the inclusion of a safety hatch. This additional escape door at the back of the crate serves as a crucial safety feature, offering a secure means to remove a dog in case of an accident quickly or if the back doors of the vehicle become damaged. This added layer of safety ensures that the well-being of the dog is never compromised, even in unexpected situations or if the worst should happen and you have a road accident.
It’s important to recognise the significance of these crates in the dog care industry too. They simplify tasks, reduce distractions, and provide peace of mind for handlers and pet owners alike. This level of professionalism and dedication to pet safety contributes to a positive reputation and fosters trust among clients, who appreciate the commitment to their pet’s well-being.
Let’s take a more in-depth look at what Transk9 dog crates are all about and why we love them!
TransK9 Dog Cages are Independently crash-tested
It means that all of the TransK9 cages are crash tested, covering both front and rear impacts as well as drop tested to check their vulnerability to a roll-over accident. These cages have a really robust design, much like the monocoque framework used in a Formula 1 Racing chassis. This structure is very strong and rigid, making sure the dogs inside are protected.
Easy cleaning
TransK9 have designed its crates for easy cleaning, which is brilliant for professionals who need to maintain a clean and hygienic workspace. Keeping all that mud and hair in one place makes such a difference!
They have also incorporated SteriTouch® into the coatings of all of their products. SteriTouch®, is a silver-based antimicrobial additive known for its ability to eliminate 99.99% of bacteria, including Salmonella, MRSA, and E. coli. SteriTouch® also helps in preventing unpleasant smells and inhibiting the growth of mould and fungi within the crate itself.
Security
In light of rising dog theft in recent years, security has become an increasingly major concern for dog guardians and professionals alike. Having robust and reliable key locks is now more important than ever and will act as a deterrent to potential theft. TransK9 also offer a nifty anchorage and rachet kit to hold the crates in place-these cages won’t be going anywhere!
Accessories
Air Flow Fan
TransK9 also supply some great additions to your car crate like their Air Flow fan, an essential bit of kit which fastens on to the front of the cage doors to help with circulating a steady flow of air around your dog to help keep the temperature down. It comes with a 4 metre cable with an in-line off switch that plugs into a 12-volt ancillary outlet or cigar lighter point for ease of use.
Lead & Accessory Hooks
We like this useful add-on to help you keep all of your dog’s stuff in one place. Making it easy to hang leads, toys and treat bags. It’s a really handy feature that keeps everything organised and accessible during your travels with your dog.
Conclusion, are TransK9 cages worth investing in?
1000% yes!. Having dog car crates that are specially designed with both the dog’s comfort, safety and security and the handler’s convenience in mind is priceless. Any investment you make in the well-being of your dog or your client’s dog is more than worth it.
To check out their fab dog gear please visit the TransK9 website
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