Is a Dog Car Harness Seat Belt Tested?
If you are considering a dog car harness for your furry friend, you may want to make sure that it has been crash tested. It is important to be sure that your canine companion is not injured or even killed in an accident. Many manufacturers have crash tested their equipment in labs to ensure that it will withstand crashes. However, if they haven't been crash tested, you may want to take them into consideration. The following are just some of the reasons why you should always be sure that your dog harness is safe for your dog to wear in an accident.
One: You should never allow your dog to ride in the front seat in your car or on a booster seat. The rear seats are just as much of a danger to your dog as the front. Even if you always used a dog car harness in the front seat and your dog is always restrained in the rear seat, the animal could still be struck by the steering wheel or hit its head on the dashboard when the dog is in the front seat and the car is in motion.
Two: A dog car harness seat belt crash test will reveal that the harness does not actually hold your dog securely in place. Some are very loose and can easily snap while others are very tight. This can cause the dog to be thrown through the air or to slam its head on the steering wheel. This is not only dangerous for your dog but could also result in serious bodily injury or even death.
Three: A dog car harness seat belt crash test will also show that the straps are not at all secure. In fact, many straps are not even attached to the dog. They simply rest around his neck and head with no connection. This can lead to easy strangulation if the dog tries to move. Even worse, it can lead to suffocation in cold weather or in extremely hot temperatures. A dog that is not secured is not a safe dog.
Four: You should also be aware that a dog car harness has not been properly tested. Even though manufacturers have required that they pass safety tests, they still do not pass the tests that actually showcase their effectiveness. It is important that any dog seat belt that you buy meets these requirements. Otherwise, you are putting your dog's life in danger.
The best way to protect your dog's seat is by simply purchasing a dog car harness that fits correctly. It doesn't matter if you are shopping for a small dog or a larger dog. A harness that is too loose can easily get snagged on steering wheels or doors, causing the dog to be thrown off balance and possibly injured. If the harness is too tight, the dog's neck may be pulled back in a painful position. Both of these are very dangerous situations.
If you have a smaller dog, consider a seat belt that fits comfortably around your dog's torso. It will provide the necessary support, but won't be so tight that your dog can't breathe. Make sure that your dog's back is against the car. You should also ensure that the dog's leg is securely planted between the seat belt and the vehicle. To test the buckle, pull the dog forward and then release the hold. You should be able to feel a small click as the belt tightens.
For larger dogs, the safest option is a dog car harness with a cross-directional harness. This type provides a number of side protection and can be used in the event of an accident, when it can hold your dog upright. These dog car harnesses can be used in the event of a crash without the risk of your dog's neck being crushed. All in all, make sure you know the regulations for your state before shopping for one.