If you’re like me, you probably roll your eyes every time you see a dog sitting in a driver’s lap and looking out the window. It looks like it’s just an accident waiting to happen.

I’m a pet lover, too. I love taking my pets to places with me. When my wife and I took a weekend trip to San Francisco last summer, we took our cat, Mrs. Meow-Gi, with us. But unlike many drivers on the road, we did it the safe way, with restraints and common sense. If you like to take your pets with you in your certified Ford, too, here are some tips to consider to safeguard yourself, your pet and the other drivers you encounter.

• Bring food and water for your pet. By using travel containers, youcan set them on the back seat or on the floorboard so your pet can have access to them any time. Some pets find food comforting.  So when they get nervous in the car, food can be a great distraction for them.

• Bring a few of your pet’s favorite toys.  When pets are not sleeping, toys keep them out of drivers’ laps.

• Plan stops along the way so your pet can get out and stretch. This is more applicable for dogs, but cats want to get out of the car at times, too. Be sure to have a leash and collar ready so your pet doesn’t get away.

• Never leave your pet alone in the car on hot days. Even a couple of minutes in a hot car can cause your pet to overheat or become dehydrated. If you don’t think you can avoid this, leave your pet at home.

It might take some extra work, but pets can add fun to your trip. Be sure to take care of them and make the trip enjoyable for them as well.