How does your pup ride in the car? With his head out a window? Riding loose in shotgun? On your lap?
Passenger safety is always important when it comes to driving, and the same goes for all species. Hankook Tire is a growing leader in the U.S. tire market, leveraging investments in technology, manufacturing, and marketing to deliver high-quality, reliable products that are safer for consumers and the environment.
They curious to learn about how drivers keep their dogs safe on the road in their latest Quarterly Gauge Index.
From December 11th to December 12th, 2015, an online survey was conducted among 1,006 randomly selected American adults who are also Vision Critical American community panel members.
According to Hankook Tire, Americans’ habit of having their dogs along for the ride is somewhat “pupular.” The Gauge revealed:
56% of drivers say they regularly take their dogs out for a spin. Northeast owners seem to be more apt to take their dogs for a drive, as 74% of them say they regularly bring them along.
In terms of safety, where a dog sits is always a factor:
- 66% of owners keep their dogs in the back seat or in a crate in the very back.
- 34% ignore DMV pet travel recommendations, suggesting drivers keep their pets in the back seat or crate due to air bag concerns in the front seat.
- 24% of owners say they strap their dog in with a seatbelt.
Of those that use a seatbelt:
- 30% of males say they use a seatbelt for their dog
- 19% of females use them
- 33% of those who use seatbelts for their dogs are between the ages of 18 and 34
Loving your dog doesn’t just involve keeping them safe in the car. Owners need to provide them with some emotional safety, and comfort is just as important.
Americans seem to have that under control as The Gauge found that 89% of owners provide their furry loved ones with plenty of attention, and talk to their dogs regularly while driving together.
“Driver and passenger safety is always the primary concern for Hankook, and that includes their pets,” said Henry Kopacz, Public Relations and Social Media Manager, Hankook Tire America Corp. “Our latest Gauge Index was able to find out more about the driver and dog dynamic, and if Americans are ensuring their safety, and that of their beloved dogs, while out on the road.”
Driver and passenger safety is a top concern for Hankook, especially during the wetter and slicker winter weather, and even in the early spring months. Here are some tips from Hankook Tire to keep you and your dog safe on the road:
- Check your tread – You and your dog are precious cargo, so make sure your tire tread is in prime form on the slick roads. Insert a penny into your tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch, and it’s time to replace your tires.
- Buckle up – This goes for both of you. When the ‘fasten your seatbelt’ sign lights up, take this as a reminder to make sure your dog is safe and secure in his crate or pet-designed seatbelt to maximize travel safety.
- Be prepared – In addition to your spare tire and jack, keep a favorite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity, as well as plenty of water.
And remember, you pet is best in a crate in the back–but not all crates are created equal! The Center For Pet Safety crash-rates the leading crates, seatbelts, and carriers to see how well they hold up in the event of a car accident.
Gunner Kennels won the highest rating for crash safety. Check out their website for more information.
