Everyone knows the importance of using proper safety restraints for children in vehicles, but not nearly as many are aware that pets require special safety precautions when traveling as well. As fun as you might think it is to have Rover on your lap or bounding around in the backseat, this is actually extremely dangerous, as your pet is not only serving as a distraction, but he is also at serious risk of injury in the event of a car accident.

Pets need to be properly secured, whether they are wearing special harnesses that can be clipped to seats or kept in crates that are safely tied down. There are many different options available for car safety devices designed for animals, but it is especially important that pet owners do their research before buying.

Subaru of America recently announced a partnership with the Center for Pet Safety which will help fund testing of such devices to provide consumers with better information and help keep their furry friends safer on the road.

"The Center for Pet Safety conducted a pilot study which showed that the majority of pet safety restraints currently on the market do not provide acceptable protection in a crash situation," said Michael McHale, Subaru's director of corporate communications.

In addition to finding the safest products, you should also take your pet's comfort into account. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports you should make sure any carrier gives your pet enough room to sit, stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. You can also help your pet acclimate to his new car confines by taking him on short trips, which will ensure he is ready for a longer trek.

If you have a lot of pets or very large ones, you might need a bigger vehicle to accommodate them on your next journey. New Jersey State Auto Auction has a wide selection of used cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from.