AAA Urges Minnesota Drivers to Buckle Up Their Dogs

Triple-A is reminding Minnesota drivers that every passenger should be secured—including four-legged ones.

A new Triple-A survey found nearly half of Minnesota dog owners allow their pets to ride unrestrained. Nearly one in four respondents said they travel with their dog at least once a week.

Triple-A warns that loose pets can distract drivers by moving around the vehicle, climbing into the front seat or barking. During a sudden stop or crash, an unrestrained animal can also be seriously injured or thrown into another passenger.

Drivers are encouraged to secure dogs in the back seat using a properly fitted safety harness or a strapped-down carrier or crate