Why is it important to secure animals when transporting them in a vehicle?

Securing animals during transport is crucial primarily to protect them from harm in the event of sudden stops or accidents. When an unrestrained animal is in a moving vehicle, any abrupt change in speed or direction, such as braking suddenly, can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities for the animal due to being thrown around or colliding with other objects in the vehicle.

Properly securing the animal, whether through a crate, a specialized harness, or other safe methods, helps to ensure that they remain safe and stable throughout the journey. This practice not only safeguards the animal but also contributes to the overall safety of the vehicle's occupants, as an unsecured animal can also pose a risk to human passengers by becoming a projectile during an accident.

While preventing distractions and ensuring comfort are indeed factors to consider, safety from harm during transport is the primary and most critical reason for securing animals. Adhering to safety regulations is also important, but the core concern ultimately revolves around protecting the animal from harm.