Should You Let Your Dog Road Trip Around Wyoming?

If you're a dog owner, and your dog loves to ride in the car or truck with you, do you let them stick their head out the window? Dogs love to pop their heads out at any chance they get, and science suggests they do it so they can take advantage of the incredible smells that lurk outside the vehicle.

We've all seen vehicles rolling down streets around town, and most of us haven't thought twice about it. It seems like a natural occurance. Dog in car = Dog's head out the window.

Some pet lovers and veterinarians advise against letting your dog's head outside the vehicle. The last thing you'd ever want is to take your dog's happiness away. What if you're not being a fun-hater, but saving your dog from pain?

There are many dangers associated with your dog riding in the car in general, but adding the factor of the head out the window increases the chances of something happening.

According to MetLife Insurance Company, here are the reasons you shouldn't let your dog stick their head out the window, or ride in the bed of a truck:

Falling: Dogs get excited, especially when they see other dogs, squirrels, or other distractions, and just because they're inside a car going 80 mph on I25, that doesn't change. If the window is down too far and they're able to squeeze out, they could fall/ jump out.

Debris: If you've looked at the front of your vehicle after driving on Wyoming roads, you've undoubtedly seen bugs stuck on the grill, headlights, and hood. If your dog's head is hanging out, there is a possibility that one of those bugs, rocks, or other debris could injure your dog.

Damage to ears: Your dog's floppy, cute, and flapping ears can be damaged if they are too exposed to the wind. The tissue of the ears can become damaged, and the more they're exposed, the more likely they are to become damaged.

As more people choose to take their dogs with them on the road, a greater range of safety options is available. Using a doggy safety harness is a good option to give your dog freedom to move around a bit, but not enough to get into too much trouble.