Pets and Distracted Driving: What You Need to Know

When we hear the term "distracted driving," most of us think of the obvious culprits - eating, putting on makeup, talking on the phone, texting, or rummaging for a dropped object on the car floor. However, few of us consider the driving distraction leaving our furry friends unsecured can cause. This fact is underscored by a 2011 Kurgo and AAA survey of people who frequently drive with their pets. The survey found that, while 64 percent of drivers admitted to engaging in a potentially distracting pet-related activity, and 29 percent admitted to actually being distracted by their pets, a full 84 percent allowed their pets to ride unrestrained. It's easy to see how an unrestrained pet could be distracting. An anxious dog may cry uncontrollably, pace, or seek comfort from its owner. A dog or cat who becomes suddenly frightened might jump or run around unpredictably. A curious dog might burst into the front seat to get a better view of something interesting he spotted from the back window. A small dog or cat might try to burrow under your seat, or worse-into your lap. In the survey, drivers admitted to doing everything from petting their dogs, carrying them on their laps, to playing with them and even giving them treats while driving. Three percent of drivers admitted to taking photos of their dogs as they drove. Restraining pets in vehicles isn't just about pets causing distracted driving. It's about what can happen during an accident. Unrestrained pets can be seriously injured or killed if they are thrown from a vehicle. Pets carried on drivers' laps can be crushed by the impact of an airbag. Frightened pets have been known to escape vehicles and run away in shock after accidents. And unsecured pets can actually put everyone in the car in danger; during an accident, a 60-pound dog can suddenly become the equivalent of a 2,700-pound projectile. Keeping your pet and human passengers safe and secure is as easy as using the right safety restraint. From pet seat belts or pet car seats, to crates or front seat pet barriers, there is an option out there that will suit your pet and your vehicle. Taking the time to find it may save you the hassle and danger of driving distracted. It may make trips with your pets more fun and worry-free. And it just may save the life your pet - or your own. About TripsWithPets.com TripsWithPets.com is the #1 online resource for pet travel. Named best pet travel site by Consumer Reports, TripsWithPets.com's mission is to offer resources that ensure pets are welcome, happy, and safe while traveling. The website features a directory of pet friendly hotels and accommodations across the United States and Canada, as well as airline & car rental pet policies; pet friendly restaurants, beaches, and events; a user-friendly route search option; pet travel tips; pet travel supplies; and other pet travel resources. About the Author Kim Salerno is the President & Founder of TripsWithPets.com. She founded the pet travel site in 2003 and is an expert in the field of pet travel. Her popular web site features pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the US and Canada, along with other helpful pet travel resources. Her mission is to ensure that pets are welcome, happy, and safe in their travels.

Berkeley Veterinarians Warn Pet Owners About the Growing Problem of Pet Obesity

Berkeley Veterinarians Warn Pet Owners About the Growing Problem of Pet Obesity BERKELEY, Calif., July 14, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Half of all pets in the United States are overweight or obese -- and weight management problems are also affecting pets in Berkeley, warns veterinarian Dr. Jas Mattu. In partnership with University Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Mattu is raising awareness about the dangers of obesity in pets and working to stop the epidemic. The veterinarian recommends pet owners schedule regular weight management consultations with their local animal hospital to pro-actively address potential weight problems head-on. A change in diet, fewer treats, smaller portion sizes and increased activity can help pets safely lose weight. Dr. Jas Mattu, a veterinarian with University Veterinary Hospital is warning pet owners about the dangers of pet obesity. According to Dr. Mattu, pet obesity is a growing problem, compromising the health for hundreds of pets each year. "Pet obesity is a serious, clinical issue," said Dr. Mattu. "Pets that are overweight or obese are at increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, mobility problems, and ultimately an early death." Overfeeding is a leading cause for pet obesity in Berkeley pets, says Dr. Mattu. The veterinarian warns that pet owners frequently over-estimate how much food their pets require on a daily basis. "The feeding guidelines on the back of pet food are general recommendations for active pets," said Dr. Mattu. "However, not all pets require as much food as the guidelines indicate. Additionally, pet owners must take into account the caloric content of treats. Some treats can add up to more calories than a standard food serving." In addition to overfeeding, Dr. Mattu says that some commercial pet foods are closer to junk food than an actual healthy meal. This can lead to weight gain and nutrient deficiencies in pets. "Many commercial pet foods are packed with fillers and additives that add calories to the food without adding nutritional value," said Dr. Mattu. "Just like the processed food that people eat, processed pet food can range significantly in nutritional value. If pet owners are not sure about their pet's food quality, a veterinarian can make specific recommendations to ensure pets receive the right balance of nutrients." Dr. Mattu is encouraging pet owners to pro-actively monitor their pet's diet and activity levels in an effort to prevent weight problems. "Proactive care is the best way to keep a pet's weight under control and prevent pet obesity," says Dr. Mattu. "This starts with a weight management and nutrition consultation at an animal hospital. A veterinarian can best assess a pet's overall health and make specific recommendations for daily food intake." Weight management and nutrition counseling is also beneficial for pets with special dietary requirements, such as food allergies. An elimination diet is frequently necessary to specifically identify allergen triggers. In addition to nutrition consulting, the Berkeley Animal Hospital provides veterinary wellness care, vaccinations, surgery, geriatric care and dermatology.