Car Travel with my Doodle

[Phoebe's Mom]

I have been traveling with Phoebe in a crate in the back of my SUV but she has now outgrown it. I am looking for some input as to whether I should buy a larger crate for travel or if I should get the grate that separates her from the rest of the cabin, keeping her in the back of the vehicle. I also need some advice for a restraint belt or system if I choose to keep her uncrated in the rear of the car. Each option has its drawbacks, but I was wondering if any of you really love the system you have chosen to use and would recommend it.

[Kathy (Ellie & Oliver)]

You are very welcome! I guess that we are more parenoid because of what happened to my husband's friend's dog. The family was devastated when their dog ran away. It takes a split second for an accident to happen. As pet owners, our goal should be to try and keep our doodles in the car in case some thing happens. I think you are wise to use a crate. If your dog goes to the bathroom, it is easier to clean up the mess in a crate. This is a great website to learn and share!!!

[Sue & Willy Babe]

I got a harness for Willy to sit on the back seat of the van he can lay down or sit up I got it at Petsmart and it works very well.

[2SCdoodles]

We have used a soft travel crate that collapses when not in use, harnesses and now we just got a grate for our Volvo XC90. I really like the grate for long trips in the cool weather months so that they dogs can move around when we stop for food. I like the harnesses for short trips. I liked the soft crate until I got the second doodle.

[Phoebe's Mom]

Sometimes I think I should just try both in someone else's car to see which I like best! It seems I am leaning toward the crate for a few reasons such a safety, our continuing battle with housetraining--last thing I need to deal with on car trips local or otherwise--and the fact that I think Phoebe would do well to miss out on all the 'entertainment' all my children might provide for her. The grate would allow her too much access to the mayhem. Thanks for your input.