Henry Started the Old Truck for a Short Trip. Copper Already Had His Seat.
The old truck rolls along at an easy pace, its steering wheel worn smooth and its window frame framing a quiet neighborhood. Henry sits behind the wheel in a cream sweater vest and wire glasses, his seat belt buckled, one hand on the wheel and a relaxed half-smile as he says something to his passenger. Copper sits upright in the seat beside him with his mouth open in a happy pant, his dark red coat glossy and his ears blown slightly back, looking out ahead with great interest.
Many dogs love car rides, and a Golden Retriever like Copper often treats them as the highlight of the day. The safest way for a dog to ride, though, is restrained, with a crash-tested harness clipped to the seat belt or a secured crate. A loose dog can distract the driver, be thrown in a sudden stop, or leap out when a door opens. Dogs should ride in the back seat when possible and should never ride with their heads out of an open window, where debris can injure their eyes. Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes, because the temperature climbs fast. Bring water and plan breaks on longer trips. If your dog drools or gets sick in the car, talk to your vet about ways to help.
Henry drives slowly and Copper watches the world go by. Both agree that any errand is better with a friend.






