Earl Climbed Into His Old Pickup. Somebody Had Already Claimed the Passenger Seat.
The paint on Earl's old pickup has faded to a soft green, the bench seat is cracked with age, and the big steering wheel has been gripped by the same hands for decades. Earl sits behind it in a blue work shirt and brown suspenders, gazing calmly ahead through the windshield. Next to him, perched upright on the passenger side and staring straight out the open window, is Pearl. Her white fur is spotless, her golden eyes are wide open, and her ears are up like she is reading the road signs. Through the windows, you can glimpse a stack of firewood, potted plants, and a cluttered porch.
Cats are not natural road-trip lovers, and most feel safest traveling in a secure carrier. An unrestrained cat in a moving vehicle can distract the driver or get hurt with a sudden stop, and a scared cat may bolt through an open window or door. For trips to the vet or anywhere else, a sturdy carrier belted onto the seat is the safest choice. Putting a familiar blanket inside and leaving the carrier out at home so your cat can explore it on her own can make travel less stressful. Never leave a pet alone in a parked car, since temperatures inside can rise or fall quickly.
Whether they are just sitting in the driveway or about to head to the feed store, these two look like the best of partners. Earl handles the steering. Pearl handles the looking cool.






