Keep Rover safe

Letting your dog have the run of the car can be dangerous. Photo / Supplied

It may be tempting to give your dog or cat the run of the car, but it's not a good idea. Your cat might not get under the pedals, but if that idiot pulls out in front of you, your pet becomes a missile.

And yes, a New Zealander has been killed by an unrestrained dog. In a frontal impact at 50km/h the force at which you're thrown forward equates to 30 times your body weight. A 375g can of baked beans hits with the force of an 11.5kg weight; a labrador doesn't bear thinking about.

Forget your own health for a moment, just think of the vet bills. Not to mention the Animals Protection Act, which requires you to ensure any dog you carry is provided with "reasonably comfortable and secure accommodation".

There are easy solutions. If your dog is allowed on the seats, get an appropriate harness from your pet shop or vet. It attaches to the seatbelt, allowing some movement but preventing a dog from flying forward in an impact. Or bolting in panic after it ...

If you've got an SUV or wagon, you should get a cargo shield which will allow your dog to move about back there, but not to fly forward during sudden deceleration. Market retailers may be able to help, or talk to a dealer specialising in your brand. Many can supply and fit cargo barriers (the Volvo XC90 version costs $553.97, yours may be cheaper). Volvo even sells a barrier that divides the boot longitudinally, so your dog can travel safely in one side and your luggage in the other.

While you're at it, consider a boot liner to keep dirty paws off your wagon's carpet - some liners will also protect the boot sides.

Consider training your dog only to jump in and out on command, and if he gets bored or carsick, try a new chew-bone to distract him.

As for cats, there's no substitute for a sturdy cage. Some will prefer to see out, but all will be safer if restrained.

There's no risk of your pet escaping when you open the door en route and if you do stop suddenly, you won't be hit by an angry - and suddenly heavy - moggy or be faced with associated veterinarian costs.