National Pet Travel Safety Day: A Reminder to Keep Pets Safe on the Go

As families gear up for road trips and vacations in the new year, National Pet Travel Safety Day, observed annually on January 2, serves as a timely reminder to prioritize the safety and comfort of our furry companions during travel.

Pets are beloved members of the family, and just like humans, they need proper protection when traveling. According to recent studies, unrestrained pets in vehicles can lead to distractions and increase the risk of accidents. National Pet Travel Safety Day emphasizes the importance of using safety measures to ensure a smooth and secure journey for pets and their handlers.

Here are five important travel tips to keep your furry friends safe from the American Humane Society:

Use a Pet Restraint System

Whether it’s a pet seat belt, harness, or secured crate, restraining pets properly prevents injuries in case of sudden stops or accidents.

Avoid Letting Pets Roam Freely

Allowing pets to move around the vehicle can cause distractions and pose serious risks to both the pet and the driver.

Never Leave Pets Unattended

Temperatures inside a parked car can rise or drop rapidly, endangering your pet’s health.

Plan for Breaks

During long trips, schedule stops for pets to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.

Pack Pet Essentials

Bring along food, water, medication, and comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket.

“Our beloved pets rely on us for their safety, whether they’re snuggled up at home or joining us on adventures,” says Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Society. “National Pet Travel Safety Day is a special occasion to remind ourselves of our responsibility to their well-being when we travel together.”

For more information on the American Humane Society, visit americanhumane.org.

About American Humane Society

With offices in Palm Beach, FL and Washington, DC, American Humane Society is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane Society has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for over 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit AmericanHumane.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.