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What to Do if You Have Your Pet
When Your Car Breaks Down

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By Rehema Ally-Lifa

Pet & Car Safety

A guy and his dog trying to fix their broken down car in the field

Breaking down on the road with your pet can be stressful. Here's how to handle the situation to ensure both you and your pet stay safe and comfortable:

1. Move to a Safe Location

  • Steer your car to the shoulder or a rest area as soon as possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If it's unsafe to exit the vehicle, stay inside with your pet until help arrives.

2. Stay Calm

  • Your pet can sense your anxiety, which can make them anxious too. Take deep breaths and try to remain calm. Speak to your pet in a soothing voice to reassure them.

3. Secure Your Pet

  • Keep your pet secured in a carrier or on a leash to prevent them from running into traffic or getting lost. This is especially important if you need to exit the vehicle.

4. Assess the Situation

  • Identify the problem if possible. Check for obvious issues, such as a flat tire or overheating engine. If you can't fix the problem yourself, it's time to call for help.

5. Call for Help

  • Contact the problem if possible. Check for obvious issues, such as a flat tire or overheating engine. If you can't fix the problem yourself, it's time to call for help.

6. Inform Family or Friends

  • Let someone know where you are and what's happening. Provide them with your location and the situation details in case you need additional help or support.

7. Use Your Emergency Kit

  • Keep someone know where you are and what's happening. Provide them with your location and the situation details in case you need additional help or support.

8. Plan Ahead

  • Before someone know where you are and what's happening. Provide them with your location and the situation details in case you need additional help or support.


Supporting Animal Nonprofits Through Car Donation

In addition to ensuring your pet's safety during a breakdown, you can support animal nonprofits by donating your old car. Organizations like Pawsitive Impact accept car donations to fund their programs and services. Donating your car is a generous way to support the well-being of animals in need and positively impact your community.

How Car Donation Works

Donating your car is a straightforward process. Here's how you can do it:

  • 1. Choose a Nonprofit: Select an animal nonprofit organization from our list of reputable nonprofits.
  • 2. Start Your Donation Process: The platform streamlines the donation process, making it easy to find and contact a charity, complete the necessary paperwork, and arrange for vehicle pick-up.
  • 3. Complete the Donation: Once your car is picked up, you'll receive a receipt for your donation. This receipt can be used for tax deduction purposes.
  • 4. Make a Difference: Your donated car will be sold, and the proceeds will support the nonprofit's mission. You'll have the satisfaction of knowing you've made a difference in the lives of animals.

By supporting initiatives like Pawsitive Impact through car donations, , you're helping ensure organizations such as Best Friends Animal Society continue their vital work. Ready to make a difference?


Choose a Nonprofit today and support animal welfare while enjoying your travels.


Experiencing a car breakdown with your pet can be challenging, but with the right preparation and a calm approach, you can ensure you and your pet remain safe and comfortable. Always have a plan and be prepared for emergencies by keeping an emergency kit in your car.


Your donation can support vital programs such as rescue operations, spay and neuter initiatives, and educational programs. By donating your car, you can help these organizations continue their essential work and improve the lives of countless animals.


Consider donating your old car to support animal nonprofits. Organizations like Pawsitive Impact rely on generous donations to fund their essential programs and services. Your car donation can support rescue operations, spay and neuter initiatives, and educational programs, making a significant difference in the lives of animals in need.


Embark on your travels confidently, knowing you are well-prepared and making a meaningful contribution to animal welfare. Safe travels and happy adventures with your pet!