Ultimate Guide to Driving With Pets

Pets are often considered another member of the family for most owners. They travel and run errands with them and take them along for daily local outings. When going on vacations, more than half would bring them when possible. It’s important to not ignore the associated risks that come with traveling with pets, even if it's just a drive around the city.

It should come as no surprise that 43.3 million American households include pets. In addition to keeping up with vet visits, dental cleanings and vaccines, it’s important that pet owners also consider their safety as vehicle passengers. Learn about the various facets of driving with pets — from understanding risks and knowing strategies to keeping them safe and understanding your pet insurance coverage options.

It’s not surprising that most people drive with their pets, considering the bond they have. Although some state laws prohibit it, most allow pet owners to drive with them, assuming they use proper restraints. Understanding the various risks involved is crucial when you drive with your pet. These dangers aren't limited to you — sometimes, it’s also unsafe for your pet. You must also consider that there are some situations where it's better to leave them at home.

Laws about pet travel vary between states. Some, such as Connecticut, Maine and New Hampshire, have regulations prohibiting you from having an unrestrained pet in your car, allowing them to stick their heads out of the window or sit on your lap. However, only Rhode Island requires pet owners to use a crate, harness or seat belt. You can be fined as much as $200 and even more if you’ve violated it multiple times.

Using proper restraints when driving with your pet is encouraged, but not all states have enacted laws. MoneyGeek’s map can be used as a reference to review specific state regulations. It helps you avoid violations you may unwittingly commit.

It can be comforting and fun to drive around with your pet. However, it can also be risky. A study from Volvo found that drivers are twice as likely to demonstrate unsafe behaviors when they drive an unrestrained pet in the car, including petting them, holding them in place when braking and letting them sit on your lap.

Remember, these risks aren’t limited to you. Your pet may also sustain injuries if they can move freely around the vehicle.

Although most pet owners like traveling with their pets, 32% leave them at home because of safety concerns. Being a responsible fur parent means assessing the situation and deciding whether bringing your pets while traveling causes more harm than good.

You might need to check whether you have the proper equipment to ensure their safety or your route. Sometimes you’ll realize that leaving your pet at home is for the best.

Parents often consider several key factors when buying a car. These include cost, reliability, safety and the potential to accommodate a growing family (assuming they’re expecting or planning to have children). Having a pet is no different.

Pet owners must also look at features that make vehicles safer for their furbabies. These may include considerable cargo space, difficult-to-damage material or technology that makes maintaining it less challenging. It’s crucial to balance cost with your (and your pet’s) comfort.

1. Subaru Outback

Cargo space is vital when you have pets and a Subaru Outback won’t leave you wanting. Your storage area increases to 75.7 cubic feet if you fold the rear seats. It also offers cargo hooks so you can secure your pet’s crate. It ensures that they won’t bounce around even if you go off-road. If your resources allow, consider getting the Onyx Edition, which uses synthetic leather upholstery. It makes cleaning after your pet easy since the material is water-repellant.

2. Honda Odyssey

Like the Subaru Outback, the Honda Odyssey also offers more-than-ample cargo space of 158 cubic feet. It also has other helpful features if you regularly drive with your pets. It has a built-in vacuum cleaner, which you can use to keep your vehicle clean even if your pet tends to shed. You’ll also have CabinWatch, so you can see what’s happening in the cargo area from your head unit. If your pet’s being unusually quiet, you might want to see what it’s doing.

3. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is a favorite among pet owners because it’s durable and easy to clean due to its water-resistant materials, ideal if your pet makes a mess. It has a removable top, allowing you to give your pet a breath of fresh air without exposing it to the hazards of being on a truck bed. It’s an excellent choice if you’re outdoorsy and like driving off-road.

4. Kia Soul

The Kia Soul may not be as big as the other vehicles we’ve included, being a compact SUV, but it makes our list nonetheless. It has a low load floor, making it easier for your pets to jump into the vehicle, even if their legs aren’t the longest. Its cargo area extends to 62.1 cubic feet once you fold the rear seats. You’ll have a Cluster Ionizer, which helps keep your vehicle smelling fresh even if you drive with your pets regularly.

5. Tesla Model 3

There's only one sedan on our list: the Tesla Model 3 and because of its Dog Mode feature. Pet owners are always discouraged from leaving their pets inside the vehicle because temperatures can quickly increase. Dog Mode allows you to adjust the temperature inside to something comfortable for your pets. It also flashes the message "My owner will be back soon. Don't worry!" for passers-by who might be concerned.

Several risks come with driving with your pet. Fortunately, there are many products you can purchase to keep them safe. These range from a simple harness that keeps them safe as they stay in your backseat to a GPS collar that can help you pinpoint their exact location if they run off. Remember, although their primary purpose is to keep your furbaby safe, these also prevent you from driving distracted.

Road safety requires a bit more thought when you’re traveling with your pet. After all, you’ll have to consider its needs as much as yours. MoneyGeek’s guide explores the different areas that contribute to this — from securing your pets to ensure your safety to understanding what you need to prepare before your trip to things to keep in mind during the actual drive.

Sometimes, you get so excited about having your pet in the car with you and end up overlooking the hazards it presents. Some people think confining them is cruel, but not doing so is riskier. An unrestrained pet is more likely to get injured during a drive. They’ll also keep your attention from the road. Remember, 60% of drivers admitted to being distracted by their dog while behind the wheel.

Safety isn't guaranteed because you are prepared. There are some things you must remember for the actual trip. This includes building stops in your route and keeping your pet hydrated. However, there are other things you must avoid as much as possible. All of these increase your chances of enjoying your drive while ensuring your safety.

Sometimes, accidents happen, no matter how much effort we put into ensuring everyone's safety. In these situations, having coverage helps considerably. Some might wonder if purchasing pet insurance is worth it, but when your furbaby needs medical attention, it almost immediately becomes a resounding yes.

Part of being a responsible pet owner is at least considering the benefits of pet insurance. Some plans protect you from post-accident costs and offer routine wellness care, taking a more preventive approach to your pet’s health.

Coverage plans can be flexible — you can adjust coverages to fit your budget. On average, you’ll spend $27.59 for dogs (or $14.96 for cats), which already provides $5,000 worth of coverage.

Full coverage car insurance is an excellent way to keep you, your loved ones and your pet safe. However, while driving your pet doesn’t automatically hike your car insurance costs, leaving them unrestrained can lead to situations that may affect your rates.

MoneyGeek’s study on distracted driving found that it causes 69% of crashes. Once it’s on your record, your insurance premium can increase. Shopping around for quotes can help you find cheap car insurance if your insurer begins charging a more expensive premium.

Technically, car insurance companies consider your pet as property. If your car insurance policy includes collision coverage, it might help pay for injuries your pet sustained in an accident. However, if a car hits your pet, your auto insurance policy won’t cover it — only a pet insurance plan will.

Not all car insurers cover pet injuries, but some that do are:

• Progressive
• Erie
• Hanover
• Metromile

Reading through your insurance documents can help determine whether this coverage is available. Or, better yet, contact your insurer directly to know if your policy includes it.

Although we can’t deny the risks involved with driving with pets, there are several ways to ensure your safety. The following resources feature items or services you might need when driving with your pet.

• Chewy: More than your typical pet accessory store, Chewy is also licensed to sell medication. You can find a pet shelter near you if you’re ready to adopt another pet.
• Petco: can be your one-stop-shop for your travel pet needs. You can purchase accessories and find various services to help prepare your pet for a trip.
• PetSmart: PetSmart is another online source of accessories. It’s best for pet owners who own multiple species. They have products for birds and reptiles and cats and dogs.
• Pet Travel Store: It’s crucial to ensure you have the right gear for your pets. Explore the Pet Travel Store to see what you may need.
• Sherpa: For pet owners who take their pet in the car often, find everything you need — from carriers to harnesses to car protection products.
• The Animal Foundation: If you’re on a budget and looking for a low-cost clinic, this page can help you out. They can help get your pet microchipped at a more affordable rate.
• VetLocator: As the name implies, this site helps locate the most accessible vet for you. Best for pet parents preparing for a trip — remember, the first step is to ensure they’re well enough to travel.