Some dogs love to go for rides in the car as much as, or even more than their owner likes to drive. If you can’t imagine going for a long drive without your pet in tow, but dislike the mess he creates, there are a few ways to protect your car. While dog proofing your vehicle won’t keep Fido from making a mess, it will reduce cleanup time considerably, making you more likely to want to bring him along for the ride.
Cover Up
Muddy paws, shedding fur, the occasional accident or sickness – there are plenty of ways for your dog to do some damage to car seats. You can protect those seats in a few ways. Before you let your pet step paw into the vehicle, spray the seats with an upholstery or leather protector. The protecting spray should create a barrier on the surface of the seats’ material, so that it won’t be stained or ruined by water, mud, and other substances.
Once you’ve shielded the seats, the next step is to cover them up. You can invest in specially made seat covers, designed to act as a barrier between the seat and your dog’s fur. Another option is to drape an old blanket over the seats. It may not look as attractive as a special cover, but you’ll be able to take it out easily, shake it off, or throw it into the wash as needed.
Wrap the Windows
If your dog enjoys riding in the car with you, it could be that he likes to watch the world speed by him through the windows. You might think that’s cute, but be less than thrilled about the slimy trail his nose leaves on the windows of the backseat. Instead of having to break out the window cleaner after every trip, be proactive about protecting them. Smooth a piece of plastic wrap over the window before each car ride, then peel it off when you get home. All evidence of your pet will be pulled away with the plastic.
Keep a Lint Brush and Cleaners Handy
Even with a seat cover and plastic wrap over the windows, your pet might succeed in messing up the back of your car. Tuck a small lint brush or roller into your glove box, so that you can quickly pick up loose hairs after your trip. Stash a bottle of spray cleaner and some paper towels in the trunk or cargo area of the car, so that you can wipe up any spills just after they happen.
If you drive with your dog, you not only want to protect the interior of your car, but you also want to make sure you protect your pet. Be aware of any laws you state has about driving with your furry friend. In most cases, it’s best to keep your dog in the back seat, so he can’t distract you as you drive.
The information in this article was obtained from various sources. This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements, nor is it intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
