Experts warn about risks of poorly designed pet travel products in Finland

The market offers a variety of pet travel products designed for canine safety, but many lack guaranteed safety. Some dog transport tools can be dangerous for both dogs and drivers, especially if a dog is thrown forcefully against the driver during a collision.

Research indicates that a dog can become a serious threat to its owner in the event of an accident if not properly secured. Inquiries made to retailers revealed that there are numerous dog seatbelts and transport crates on the market, yet no official safety standards exist for testing these products. Recommendations from experts in the field rely on their insights and experiences.

Teemu Pehkonen from Kulkukoira Oy emphasizes that products with a high plastic content provide less protection in crash situations. The strength of materials used is crucial for safety; harnesses must be ergonomic and properly sized for the dog. A well-fitted harness distributes forces evenly during a crash, minimizing injury risks.

Some products are misleadingly marketed—while certain harnesses may keep a dog stationary inside a vehicle, they do not necessarily enhance crash safety. Pehkonen notes that outdoor harnesses do not improve travel safety either.

Hurtta has developed its own safety harnesses, which have undergone testing for over three years to meet durability standards akin to those for children’s car seats. However, Niina Thitz, a designer for Hurtta, warns that distinguishing genuinely safe products from those that are merely labeled as such can be quite challenging for consumers.

In terms of crates, Pehkonen advises that the safest option is a crash-tested crate. Moreover, unsecured crates pose significant risks and should be appropriately secured with seatbelts for maximum safety.