These days, more pets than ever are traveling in vehicles. However, most drivers aren't taking the steps necessary to ensure that travel is safe for both them and their pets. Most pets travel unrestrained, increasing the risk of pet injury or fatality during an accident. Unrestrained pets also pose risks for the drivers. If an accident occurs while the car is moving at 35 mph, an unrestrained, 60-pound dog is capable of causing an impact of up to 2,700 pounds. If the unrestrained pet survives the crash, he may impede or slow the progress of rescue workers, as they need to tend to the animal and the human victims. First responders nationwide have said that, “any time lost in the caring of accident victims [due to] the need to deal with a frightened or injured animal can and should be avoided.” On The Record
Joe Farrow Commissioner, California Highway Patrol:
"Bark Buckle UP has my vote, safety depends on what you do in the car buckle up your pets like you do your children".
Murry J. Pendleton Chief of Police, Waterfard Connecticut:
“Loose pets become a missile inside the vehicle if not secured and can be injured or injure occupants in the vehicle. This has not been on the plate as of yet, as the focus has been drivers and passengers to buckle up".
Carl McDonald MADD &, Retired Wyoming State Patrol:
"Pets like children belong in backseat and buckled up, yes I am 100% support for Bark Buckle UP's program".
Thomas Finn Chief of Police, California Highway Patrol:
"This is the first time I have spoke of this accident but what bothered me the most was the family pet was thrown from the car and the injuries were so bad it had to be euthanized as the scene”.
Harry J. Corbitt Superintendent, New York State Police:
"Animals or cell phone that distracts you while you are driving are very dangerous. I think it is important to buckle up the animals."
