One way to keep your dog safe while traveling is to secure their crate in the car. This can be done in a number of ways, depending on the size and type of crate you have.
There are also a few things to consider, such as making sure the crate is well ventilated and that your dog has enough room to move around comfortably. Without further ado, here is a complete guide on how to secure dog crate in car boot.
Key note: we do not recommend using the car boot of a small car, as this does not provide enough ventilation compared to an SUV.
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5 methods to secure dog crate in car boot
So, you’ve got your dog crate and you’re ready to hit the road. How do you actually secure it in the car so that your pup doesn’t go bouncing around the boot? Here are five methods to do just that.
Tying down the crate
Most crates come with built-in loops or eyelets that you can use to tie the crate to the car. This is the simplest and most effective way to secure the crate, as it will prevent it from moving around in the event of a sudden stop or accident.
You can use a bungee cord, or even rope to tie the crate. Just make sure that whatever you use is strong enough to hold the crate in place, as you don’t want it coming loose and giving your dog a bumpy ride.
Fill the boot with other items
If you have a lot of stuff in the boot, this can help to keep the crate secure and prevent it from moving around. Just make sure that you don’t put anything too heavy on top of the crate, as this could crush it in the event of an accident.
Also make sure your dog has enough ventilation, as a too crowded boot can cause them to overheat.
Using L-brackets to secure the crate
L-brackets can be used to create a more secure connection between the crate and the car. These brackets can be screwed or bolted into place, and will provide a more permanent solution for securing the crate.
Just make sure that you use the appropriate size screws or bolts, as using something too small could cause the bracket to come. Keep in mind that you have to screw and unscrew these brackets each time you want to remove the crate, so this may not be the most convenient option.
Use zip ties
Zip ties can be attached to the crate and then looped around a seat belt or other anchoring point in the car. This will create a more permanent connection between the crate and the car, and will help to prevent the crate from moving during transport.
However, it is important to make sure that the zip ties are not too tight, as this could damage the crate or cause uncomfortable pressure on the pet inside. With a little bit of planning, using zip ties is an easy and effective way to secure a dog crate in a car.
Use anti slip matting
If you are worried about the crate sliding around, you can always put an anti-slip matting under it. This will help to keep it in place and prevent it from moving around unnecessarily. Although this prevents sliding, it still moves the crate when driving over a bumpy road.
For this reason we recommend using this as an additional method to secure the crate, rather than the sole method.
5 Things to keep in mind when keeping your dog in the boot
When traveling with your dog in the boot, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure their safety and comfort:
Keep the boot well ventilated
One of the most important things to consider is making sure that the boot is well ventilated. A too hot or stuffy environment can be dangerous for your dog, so it is important to make sure that they have enough air flow.
This can be achieved by opening one of the windows a crack, or by using a ventilated crate cover. If you are unsure if the boot is too hot, always err on the side of caution and open a window to ensure your dog has enough air.
Make sure there is enough room
Another thing to consider is making sure that your dog has enough room in the crate. They should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably, without being cramped.
If the crate is too small, your dog may become anxious or agitated, which can make for a stressful car ride. Always make sure to choose a crate that is appropriately sized for your dog.
Give them something to keep them occupied
When traveling, it is always a good idea to give your dog something to keep them occupied. This could be a toy, bone, or even a treat-dispensing toy.
This will help to keep them calm and distracted during the car ride, and can also help to prevent motion sickness.
Stop for bathroom breaks and drinks
If you are going on a long car ride, make sure to stop frequently for bathroom breaks. This will give your dog a chance to relieve themselves, and will also give them a chance to stretch their legs.
In these breaks you can also provide them with a drink of water, to make sure they stay hydrated during the journey.
Never leave them alone in the car
It is never a good idea to leave your dog alone in the car, even for a short period of time. The car can become extremely hot or cold very quickly, and this can be dangerous for your pet.
If you need to leave the car for any reason, make sure to take your dog with you or have someone stay with them. Also make sure the air conditioning is running if it is a hot day, as this will help to keep the car cool.
Final thoughts – How to secure dog crate in car boot
By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your dog is safe and secure when traveling in the car. Just remember to always keep their safety in mind, and to make sure the crate is appropriately sized and ventilated. With a little preparation, you can make car rides a breeze for both you and your furry friend!
