The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association estimates that pet
owners will spend more than $38 billion this year on all sorts of
things for their pet including car seats, seat belts, and other
automotive accessories.
For
many owners, it has become a safety issue. It is estimated that every
1.5 million accidents are caused by distraction, with pets the third
biggest distraction. Several states have laws that require that pets be
restrained.
In response, companies are offering all sorts of products to deal with
the issue. Flexi-Mat is selling a Pet Stow Away, a multipurpose product
that serves as a car seat, suitcase, and pet bed. The Pet Stow Away is
hooked to the vehicle's seat belt and has a safety hook inside that
attaches to the animal's harness. It retails for $89 (Ask Patty found
it for $78 on Shopping Warehouse!).
The
company also sells a hammock which is designed to attach to a car's
front and rear headrests, keeping pets in the back seat and off the
floor. It also features zippered openings for the vehicle's seat belts
and a front compartment for storage. It sells for $66, though PetSmart
and other retailers offer a similar product around about $50.
Colorado based Ruff Rider
has a vehicle restraint harness for dogs called the Roadie. The Roadie,
which was rated the best in the industry by Tufts University's School
of Veterinary Medicine in 2000, attaches to a vehicle's seat belt
system and has a built in short walking lead. The basic model sells for
$29.95. Another model with sheepskin lining sells for $59.95.
Several other companies sell pet restraints for as little as $10.
Finally,
SUV owners can create space for their pet with vehicle partitions.
These are designed to go behind the last row of seats and extends to
the vehicle's ceiling. These products go for about $75 while add on
pieces to adjust the size go for about $35.
Pets, like children, should be properly restrained and we're glad to hear there are many products available for them.
Reprinted from Automotive.com
Additional articles on Automotive.com:
Volvo Goes to the Dogs, Cats, and Pets as Best Ride
Kaitlyn's Law Now For Pets
And check out this article from The Boston Globe for even more tips and ideas Read our previous post on great pet and car accessories and safety items as well!