It's long been said that “dog is man's best friend,” and manypeople feel that way about their family pets. They are so attachedto their pets, in fact, that they frequently take them along withthem in the car—and it's not just a ride to the vet. They're takingdogs to dog parks, day care and even play dates with other dogs.This is all well and good, until one thinks about the distractionthat having a dog in the car brings.

A survey of drivers who travel with their dogs showed thatdrivers admit to petting their dogs; using hands or arms to holddogs in place while braking; using hands to keep dogs from climbinginto the front seat; allowing dogs to sit on their lap; and feedingdogs treats while driving.

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In addition to the driving distraction that Bowzer presents whenhe is a passenger in the car is the safety hazard. In an accident,Bowzer becomes a flying missile, injuring himself and others as hebounces around the car. In an abrupt stop, Bowzer will keep movingat the speed the car was traveling. Take a 40-pound dog moving at60 miles an hour, and the physics of the situation get ugly. Thedriver, passengers and Bowzer may all be injured.

Remember that as far as insurance is concerned, Bowzer ispersonal property, so the Auto policy med pay doesn't coverinjuries to Bowzer, and the Homeowner's policy doesn't coveranimals. Some carriers are now offering coverage for animalstraveling in cars. One carrier's limit is $2,000; however, ifyou've ever taken an animal to an emergency vet, you know that$2,000 may not be enough to treat all of Bowzer's injuries.

But all is not lost. A visit to most pet stores will provide youwith a safety harness for your furry friend. While there aren't anylaws that Bowzer must be buckled up, if you buckle up yourself andyour family, you may as well buckle up Bowzer.