GREENWICH, Conn., May 22 /PRNewswire/ — While people know it’s important to buckle up in a car, a majority of the 40 million pets expected to hit the roads this vacation season will not be properly restrained, causing an unnecessary safety hazard to pets and people alike. The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) learned that an unsecured 60-pound dog could hit a windshield, backseat or another passenger with a force of 1,200 pounds in a 30-mile-per-hour collision.
Reacting to a widespread danger on American roads, APPMA is urging America to buckle up pets with its “Be Sure to Secure” national travel safety campaign. “There are many easy-to-use restraint devices, including harnesses and crates, which limit distractions and keep pets and others safe while traveling,” said Funda Alp, spokesperson for APPMA, the nation’s leading not-for-profit trade group that educates the public about responsible pet care.
APPMA recommends owners follow simple pre-travel steps so pets are safe, secure and content while traveling. “After properly securing pets, take them on a few short rides around your neighborhood to get them used to being in the car,” Alp suggests. “With practice rides, companion animals will be more comfortable and experience less stress before taking a longer trip.” Alp also suggests feeding a pet at least two hours before departure, scheduling a pre-vacation veterinarian visit and packing a pet’s health records and medications.
APPMA’s “Be Sure to Secure” campaign will include a national radio public service announcement (PSA), a bumper sticker handout and the distribution of a collection of consumer tips offering solutions to common travel questions.
Founded in 1958, the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association is the nation’s leading not-for-profit trade organization serving the interests of pet product manufacturers and educating the public on the many joys and health benefits associated with pet ownership. APPMA’s membership consists of nearly 650 companies that include both small businesses as well as the nation’s leading pet product companies. Visit http://www.appma.org for additional information about responsible pet care.
SOURCE: The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association
###