• Menu
  • Skip to left header navigation
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Vegetarian Zen

Vegetarian | Vegan | Veg-Curious | Plant-Based | Recipes and Resources MINUS the Judgement

  • Home
  • About
  • FAQ
  • Contact Us
  • Home
  • About
  • FAQ
  • Contact Us
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
  • Resources
  • Support
  • Buddha Bowl Book
  • Store
  • Search
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
  • Resources
  • Support
  • Buddha Bowl Book
  • Store
  • Search
dog car restraints

What You May Not Know About Your Dog Car Harness (VZ 322)

//  by Vickie Velasquez

I have to admit, in researching this topic, I was SHOCKED to find out how many dog harnesses failed to provide the results they promised, the most basic being to protect your dog (and to protect you from a flying dog!) in the event of a car accident.

Before we talk about specific harnesses and safety tips, let’s talk about the Center for Pet Safety because they will be a large focus of this discussion.

 

What is the Center for Pet Safety?

The Center for Pet Safety is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit research and advocacy organization dedicated to protecting pets and the people who love them.

The center was founded by Lindsey Wolko after her own dog, Maggie, was seriously injured in a car accident when her dog harness failed her.

Here is more about Lindsey from the CPS website:

Lindsey A. Wolko, Founder/CEO. A long-term pet safety advocate, Ms. Wolko leads a mission that is personal to every pet owner. With a keen understanding of the pet industry, she has authored safety standards for pet products, launched a certification program, counseled pet product manufacturers around the globe and works tirelessly for consumer and companion animal safety.

Ms. Wolko has a background in project/program management as well governance/controls development. Ms. Wolko holds a bachelor’s degree from George Mason University. She currently leads the research division of CPS.

 

Let’s move on to a couple of very important safety tips before we talk about finding the right dog harness.

General Car Safety

Pets should ALWAYS go in the back seat! Just as we would never put a toddler or infant in the front seat of a car, we should NEVER allow a pet in the front seat, even if it’s restrained.

The impact from a deployed airbag can kill your pet or cause serious injury.

Additionally, loose pets can be a distraction and even get between the brake pedal and floorboard while you’re driving.

Don’t allow your pet to stick its head out the window. While most people say “awww” when they see a cute dog hanging its head out the window, allowing this is a bad idea that can result in serious injury. If your dog isn’t restrained, he/she can fall out. Additionally, even if restrained, your dog can be hit with debris causing injury to his head or eyes.

 

Picking Out a Safe Harness

Is it CPS certified?

First, it’s important to know that the Center for Pet Safety is the ONLY independent nonprofit research and consumer advocacy organization certifying pet car restraints.

Their number one priority is the safety of you and your pets. CPS has its own certification program that involves fair and unbiased testing.

What’s unfortunate (and even untruthful in some cases!) when it comes to many manufacturers’ claims that their restraints are “crash tested” but aren’t certified by the CPS is that these tests are VERY subjective and can mislead you into thinking they are safe. The restraint we purchased for our dogs stated on the packaging that it was crash-tested but it failed in the video (below) presented by CPS.

 

 

While looking at reviews is helpful, it’s important to remember that some manufacturers buy reviews. Be sure to look for the CPS certified logo!

 

Sleepypod Sport Dog Harness
Sleepypod ClickIt Sport Crash-Tested Car Safety Dog Harness

 

Sleepypod Clickit Terrain Safety Harness
Sleepypod Clickit Terrain Safety Harness

Train Your Dog For The Car

The first few times they were in the car, our dogs weren’t exactly sure what to do. Since many dogs are unsure in new environments, it’s a good idea to praise them and make it a positive experience.

Start by taking them on short trips and then gradually increase their time spent in the car.

 

Avoid Zipline-Style and Tether Dog Car Harnesses

If you can’t afford a harness that is CPS certified, at least be sure to avoid this style of harness, which can do more harm than good.

It’s easy to think that letting your dog have a bit of “roaming room” is a good idea, but if your pup has too much room he can get stuck and cause a distraction, putting you and him in danger.

We hope this episode has encouraged you to start restraining your beloved pets in the car (if you don’t already). If you already do, please be sure to check the safety of your particular harness. If you really want to “level-up” your activism, send a quick email to the manufacturer of your dog’s restraint to inquire more about its safety and to urge them to get certified by the CPS.

Taking this small step will let manufacturers know that we pay attention to these things. Remember, we vote with our dollars, so be sure to support those companies that are looking out for you and your family, including your furry family members!

Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links and, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through to the product using the link we have provided. We never recommend or provide affiliate links to products or services we do not use ourselves, and our ultimate goal is to provide helpful products and advice to you, our readers and listeners.

Support Vegetarian Zen on Patreon https://www.vegetarianzen.com Sign up for the Vegetarian Zen newsletter for shop discount https://www.vegetarianzen.com The Shop at Vegetarian Zen - button https://www.vegetarianzen.com

A Special Thanks To Our Sponsors:

  • Buddha Bowls: The Vegetarian Zen Way

Products:

  • Zugo Pet Rocketeer Pack
  • Clickit Terrain Safety Harness
  • Clickit Sport Safety Harness

 

Recipe of the Week

  • Peanut Butter Dog Treats from Living Vegan

 

Thanks for listening!

Peace and Veggies,
Vickie and Larissa

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Related Posts

  • episode 109
    You May Be a Reducetarian (and not even know it!) (VZ 109)

    In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing a familiar concept with…

  • vegetarian zen podcast 192
    What is Sorghum? (VZ 192)

    In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we learn about sorghum, an ancient grain…

  • vegetarian zen podcast ep. 210
    How to Make Your Own Delicious Vegan Sushi (VZ 210)

    It's Vegan....It's Sushi...What's Not to LOVE? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we…

Category: The Vegetarian Zen Podcast, PetsTag: center for pet safety, dog car harness, dog car restraints, pet safety

Previous Post: «woman on beach Goodbye Autoimmune Disease with Dr. Brooke Goldner (VZ 321)
Next Post: 7 Powerful Pantry Organization Tips! (VZ 323) tips for organizing your pantry»

Footer

Vegetarian Zen

At Vegetarian Zen we applaud, encourage and celebrate vegetarianism in any form, fashion or degree. Not a vegetarian? Not to worry…you’ll still find plenty of entertaining and helpful information about living more of a plant-based lifestyle.   Learn More.

Latest News

  • Quantum Shift with Creator, Producer, Director Kiko Ellsworth (VZ 375)
  • 7 Tips for a Successful Veganuary
  • Conscious Consumerism with Adriane Marie of HEALabel (VZ 374)
  • 7 Vegan Black-Eyed Peas Recipes For A Prosperous New Year!
  • 10 Delicious Vegan and Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Ideas

Contact Us

We would love your feedback!  Please contact us by visiting our Contact Page.   You can also Follow Us on Social Media by clicking the corresponding links below!

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Copyright © 2021 Vegetarian Zen · All Rights Reserved · Vegetarian Zen