ILLUSTRATION BY TOD PARKHILL

Marmaduke of Hazards Safety Tips for Pet Passengers

APRIL 8, 2011

f youve caught spring fever, youre ready to break free from cabin-fevered winter blues for some fun in the sun. Richmonders will ock to Deep Run, bask in Belle Isle and ood the river. And I dont know about you, but Ill bring along my dog, whose doggie paddle gives Michael Phelps a run for the medal. Nowadays, some vehicles have gone with not to the dogs. In addition to my autographed models, you can nd other viable pawssibilities, including the Toyota Venza or Ford Escape Hybrid. For your family car, consider pet-friendly amenities safety and comfort upgrades. Since State Troopers dont have a click it or ticket law for furry co-pilots, you must be driven by safety not penalty. A 60-pound, unrestrained pet becomes a 2,700pound projectile in a 35 MPH accident. Over 70 million homes in America have pets; 82% of pets travel on vacation with their owners and pet vacation lodging has surged 300% since 2005. With most accidents caused by driver distraction, should 98% of dogs travel without proper restraints? (Statistics provided by www.barkbuckleup.com) Christina Selter, Founder of Bark Buckle Up, and known as Pet Safety Lady to many, has buckled up more than 10,000 pets. She told me, In all honesty, I dont care what you use, as long as you use something. Nobody wants to

see their pets tossed through the vehicle windshield. Securing your pet is for your safety and, of course, your pets health. I had a dog that always rode shotgun, two paws on the front arm rest and hind legs on the backseat. It was adorable until a sharp turn or sudden stop interrupted smooth handling. My poor hound was ung around like a ragdoll. Projectile, distraction or ragdoll, your freemoving friend is not exempt from the force of an air bag deployed at 200 MPH. Heres what you do before asking that magical question, Do you want to go for a ride? Choose a harness that ts snugly and fastens to the seatbelt. Take it from the experts: Allied Animal Hospital and Pet Hotel, serving Richmond since 1964, reported staff member use of safety restraints. You may also opt for a kennel carrier fastened to the backseat. The well-ventilated crate with a secure door and latch should be placed forward and sized with adequate room to sit, lie down and turn around. Buckle in, and all paws inside! Canines that stick their heads out the window can hurt their eyes with dangerous debris particles. Never leave your pet unattended in your car. In 85 degrees, your car will be 102 degrees within ten minutes. Baked ten minutes longer, the car will reach 120. In a half hours time in gorgeous 72 degree weather outside, itll be a roasting 105 inside. Any temperature above 60

Autobiographical commentary

by Joanna Ernst
degrees means reaching that danger zoneand fast. Rolling down the window or parking in the shade is not enough, so ride solo if you need to run an errand, even if its a pit stop. We live in the South, so even a warm day becomes a scorcher inside our autos. If youve ever burnt your hand on the steering wheel, then you know what Im saying. Remember that whether two- or four-legged, youre responsible for the safety and well-being of every passenger in your vehicle. We treat our animals like family members at home, and this wellbeing needs to apply to our wheels as well. June is Pet Safety Month, so take the high road as you begin your dog days of summer.

This weeks Motor Mouth Autographed Picks

Get your paws on these pet-proofed models:
1. 2010 Honda Element $995 dog-friendly package; hose-ready, roomy interior 2. BMW 3 series wagon Pet barrier; sporty yet spacious ride 3. Hyundai Santa Fe Pet specic add-ons; ample interior space, third-row seats 4. Volvo XC60 Heavy-duty rubber mats; pet barrier enhance luxury 5. Subaru Forester Lower to ground than many SUVs, 68 cubic feet cargo room