Is your furry friend a frequent traveller in your car? While taking your dog along for the ride can be a fun and rewarding experience, it can also lead to some not-so-fun consequences, such as scratched upholstery, lingering odours, and even safety risks. Let’s see how getting a car seat protector can help, and how you can choose the right one.
5 Reasons to Get a Car Seat Protector for Pets
Protect Your Car’s Upholstery
Your furry friend may love riding shotguns, but their paws and claws can wreak havoc on your car’s upholstery. Scratches, tears, and stains are potential hazards of travelling with pets. Not to mention the hair that seems to cling to every surface, no matter how much you vacuum. That’s where practical car seat protectors for dogs come in.
By providing a barrier between your pet and your vehicle’s upholstery, these protectors can help prevent damage and keep your vehicle’s interior looking new. Whether your dog is prone to scratching, shedding, or drooling, a seat protector can save you time and money on repairs and cleaning.
Keep Your Dog Safe While Travelling
Canines can be unpredictable passengers, especially when they’re excited or nervous. They may jump around the car, climb onto your lap, or try to stick their head out the window, which can be dangerous for both them and you. That’s why keeping your furry pal securely in place while travelling is essential.
A car dog seat cover can help by providing a designated space for your furry friend to sit or lie on. Some seat covers even come with built-in restraints or harnesses that can keep your pet safely in place, preventing them from distracting you while driving, allowing a stress-free ride and arriving at your destination safely.
Make Cleanup Easier
Let’s face it, cleaning up after a dog that’s been in a car can be a chore. From hair and dirt to drool and accidents, it’s not always a pretty picture. By providing a barrier between your dog’s and your car’s upholstery, seat protectors can trap dirt, hair, and other debris that would otherwise get embedded in the fabric.
Some options are waterproof and can contain spills and accidents, making cleanup a breeze. Instead of spending hours vacuuming and scrubbing your car’s interior, you can simply remove the protector, shake it out, and toss it in the wash. It’s that easy!
Provide Comfort for Your Dog
Long rides can be tough on canines if they’re not used to travelling. They can become restless and uncomfortable, leading to whining, pacing, or even nausea. By providing a cushioned and designated space for your furry friend, these car dog seat covers can help keep your furry best pal comfortable and at ease during car rides. Some of these covers employ soft, plush materials that can soothe your dog and make them feel at home. Plus, having their designated space in the vehicle can make dogs feel more secure and less anxious while travelling.
Prevent Health Risks
Harmful chemicals or substances such as cleaning products, air fresheners, or pesticides can be present in your car’s upholstery and may come into contact with your pet during rides. A cover can keep your doggo safe and healthy by providing a barrier between them and these potential toxins.
Also, some car seat protectors for dogs made with hypoallergenic materials, can prevent allergic reactions in dogs with sensitive skin. By investing in a car seat protector, you’re not just protecting your car and your pet’s comfort but also their health and well-being.
How Do I Choose a Dog Seat Cover?
Since seat protectors come in various styles, sizes and materials, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are the crucial factors you should consider when selecting.
Size
The first thing to consider when selecting a seat cover is the size of your dog and your vehicle’s seats. Different sizes are available, even though most covers fit most cars, trucks, and SUVs. Measuring the width of your rear bench seat from door to door is the best way to determine which size seat cover will fit. Ensure that the seat cover you choose fits the size and shape of your car’s seats and provides enough space for your dog to sit or lie down comfortably.
Material
The material of the seat cover is crucial as it will determine the ease of cleanliness, the durability, and the level of comfort it offers your pooch. Consider materials that are easy to clean, waterproof, and scratch-resistant. Look for materials such as neoprene, polyester, or nylon.
Canvas-like blankets are typically the most durable option for larger, more active dogs, as the sturdy, heavyweight, waterproof fabric is preferable because it can withstand paws and toenails. Loft-quilted backseat coverings are a good choice if you want a soft, smooth material that won’t collect hair because it’s simple to shake dirt and hair out of them and wash them nicely. I would suggest it to anyone who prefers a softer fabric over one with a more “canvas-like” texture.
Style
Seat protectors come in different styles, including bench, hammock, and the bucket style. Consider the style that suits your car’s seats and your dog’s needs. A hammock-style cover may be ideal if your dog is prone to moving around during rides, while a bench-style protector may be more comfortable for long trips.
Safety Features
Some seat covers have safety features such as built-in restraints or harnesses to keep your pet secure while travelling. Consider these features, especially if you have an active or restless dog.
Ease of Installation
Look for a seat cover that is easy to install and remove. Some options come with adjustable straps or buckles that make installation a breeze, while others may require more effort.