Bark Buckle Up is a nationwide campaign to educate pet parents on the importance of securing their pets safely for travel. They work with Volvo dealers, law enforcement, fire departments and rescue agencies to expose the dangers of unrestrained pets. While it is admirable for us to love our pets enough to take them along in our vehicles, it is also our obligation to do so safely. In fact, many states and provinces now require that pets be restrained

An unsecured pet is a potential danger to anyone in your car, other motorists, rescue personnel, and himself. In the event of an accident at 30mph, a 15 pound dog can cause an impact of 300 pounds. A 60 pound dog can produce a 2700 pound impact. With this equation, the dangers to the driver, passengers and dog are obvious. There are other concerns, however. Should the dog be unharmed, he could impede the rescue workers by reacting fearfully and protecting his injured family. A dog could also escape from the vehicle potentially causing another accident or he could get lost and injured later.

A secured crate/carrier is the leading recommendation for traveling with your pet. For crate trained animals it also offers familiar surroundings and the added convenience of a place to sleep when you reach your destination. Even a pet that is not accustomed to being confined can usually adapt to a crate for travel quite easily.

An alternative to a secured crate is a restraint harness that locks into the seatbelt. These are available in a variety of sizes and styles. It is best to use one with metal buckles, as plastic ones may break in a collision. Be advised that these devices have not had any official safety testing.

A pet barrier for SUV’s and wagons is considered the least desirable alternative to using a secured crate, other than no restraint at all. While it keeps the pet from entering the passenger area, it does not protect the animal from injury or other potential hazards. Some tension suspended barriers have also been known to dislodge in an accident.

Whatever restraint system you choose, get your pet used to traveling before a long trip. A little training and preparation will make for a fun and safe holiday for the whole family.

To Our Clients:

Say “No” to a tax on veterinary services!

Governor Schwarzenegger wants to raise millions by adding a tax on veterinary services.  This will be reflected directly on YOUR BILL at the end of every visit to your veterinarian.

On November 6, 2008, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger called for an increase in the California state sales tax to address the multi-billion dollar deficit in the budget, and proposed a sales tax on all veterinary services.  This was part of a larger combination of program cuts and revenue increases to balance the state budget. 

This proposal could add approximately 9% to the cost of veterinary care.  Many animals won’t get the necessary medical care and treatment they deserve because veterinary services will be more expensive.  Pets are part of our families and a lot of families are already facing financial hardship in this weak economy.  Increasing the cost of veterinary care will only lead to more animals being abandoned, or euthanized.   It’s not fair for your pets to suffer because the state cannot balance its budget.

Here’s what you can do to help stop the tax on veterinary services!

Write letters, make phone calls, send emails, or fax your comments to the Governor and to your elected officials.  If writing, try to personalize your letter and be brief.  Let them know that pets are family members and this proposed tax will add a huge financial burden to your family.  Ask that veterinary services be removed from the Governor’s proposal.

If you need assistance, go to the California Veterinary Medical Association website at www.cvma.net for additional facts and contact information.  It is important that every pet owner be heard.  Please take action today for your pets and write a letter.  The Governor wants his proposal passed by the end of November so he needs to hear from you now!

Thank you,

The Doctors and Staff at The Drake Center