DIY Dog Car Barrier: Keep Your Pup Safe During Road Trips! Click to Learn How

A dog car barrier can be quite expensive if purchased from a pet store, but it can be easily made at home with a few materials and some DIY skills. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to build your own dog car barrier, so that you can ensure your pups enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.

Importance of a Dog Car Barrier

A car accident can occur at any time, and when it does, an unrestrained dog can be a major safety hazard. A dog car barrier is designed to keep dogs safe and secure while they are on the move. It stops them from moving around the car and distracting the driver, which can ultimately lead to an accident. It is also important to note that an unrestrained dog can easily get thrown out of a car in the event of an accident, which puts them at great risk of injury or death.

Materials Needed for a DIY Dog Car Barrier

To build a DIY dog car barrier, you will need the following materials:

– A roll of heavy-duty wire mesh or PVC pipes
– Cable ties or zip ties
– A hacksaw or wire cutters
– Measuring tape
– Pliers

Steps to Build Your Own Dog Car Barrier

Step 1: Measure the Width of Your Car

Measure the width of your car from one side of the interior to the other, just behind the front seats. This measurement will give you an idea of the width you require for your dog car barrier.

Step 2: Cut the Mesh or PVC Pipes

Cut the wire mesh or PVC pipes down to the required length. The mesh should be long enough to cover the entire width of your car interior. PVC pipes can be cut into pieces and connected with cable ties or zip ties to create a barrier.

Step 3: Attach the Mesh or PVC Pipes

Using cable ties or zip ties, attach the wire mesh or PVC pipes to the headrests of the front seats. Ensure that the barrier is steady and secure and that there are no gaps through which your dog can escape.

Step 4: Add a DIY Back Seat Divider

To separate dogs in car, a DIY back seat divider is an excellent addition to your dog car barrier. You can make one using plywood, cardboard or mesh. Measure the width and height of your car’s back seat, cut the material to size and attach it to the mesh or PVC pipes with cable ties or zip ties.

Step 5: Test Your DIY Dog Car Barrier

Test your dog car barrier by giving it a gentle push to ensure it is secure and steady. Do not drive the car until you are sure your pets are safe and comfortable in their new environment.

Tips and Tricks to Use Your DIY Dog Car Barrier

– Make sure your pets are properly restrained in the back seat of your car, whether by a dog car barrier or a harness that clicks into your car’s seatbelt.
– Keep an ample supply of water and snacks in the car, especially on long journeys
– Don’t keep your dogs in the car for too long or leave them unattended; this can lead to stress and anxiety
– Dogs tend to get car sick, especially during long journeys. Carry some vomit bags or towels, just in case.
– Train your dog to get accustomed to being in the car to avoid stressful situations when taking them for a car ride.

FAQs

Q. Can I use any wire mesh or PVC pipes for my dog car barrier?

A. You can use most wire mesh or PVC pipes as long as they are sturdy and heavy-duty.

Q. Does a dog car barrier work for all car types?

A. Dog car barriers are suitable for most SUVs and vans, but they may not work for all car types. It is important to measure your car’s interior before building a barrier.

Q. Can I purchase a dog car barrier instead of building one?

A. Yes, there are many pre-made dog car barriers available in the market. However, they tend to be costly.

Q. Should I carry my dog’s favorite toys when going for a car ride?

A. Yes, carrying your dog’s favorite toys can help keep them calm and relaxed during a car ride.

In conclusion, a dog car barrier or DIY back seat divider is an essential and cost-effective way to ensure the safety of your furry friend while on the road. With the right materials and a little know-how, building your own dog car barrier is easy and fun. So, grab your tools, get creative and ensure your dog enjoys a safe and comfortable ride each time.