Dogs Jumping Out Of Cars In Mddletown Prompts Animal Control Recommendation

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Instances of dogs jumping out of vehicles locally have prompted a harness recommendation from Middletown Animal Control.

"In the last two weeks, we have had two different dogs jump out of the car window while the car was driving," Animal Control officials said. "Amazingly, both dogs were captured safely. We would like to take this opportunity to share some advice. Please, secure your dogs inside your car."

There are several options, animal control officials said.

"You can get a seatbelt harness, clip the seatbelt through the end of the leash, secure them in a crate or set up a divider for the back of an SUV or station wagon. A $20 harness can save your dog's life," they added.

Vehicle windows should be open only a few inches so dogs can sniff the air.

"Do not open the window all the way and give them the chance to jump. Not only could your dog be injured or killed, another driver trying to avoid them could be injured or killed as well," animal control officials said. "We have had dogs killed in car accidents when they hit the windshield on impact. In an accident, they become projectiles."

They added, "This is education, not shaming. We hope it helps."