Car Window Screen

Travelling with pets in Australia means dealing with sun through glass. A car parked for ten minutes in summer heats up fast, and even on the move, a back seat in full afternoon sun is an uncomfortable place for a dog or cat in a crate.

Car window screens take the edge off. This range covers magnetic mesh curtains, UV blocking sunshades, reflective protectors and vinyl window films, so you can shade the rear seats without losing airflow or your view.

Choosing the Right Screen

Magnetic mesh curtains fit over the frame of a rear side window and go on and off in seconds, which suits people who only need shade when the dog is aboard. They keep air moving with the window part way down, and that airflow matters as much as the shade itself. Static cling and film style protectors stay put for longer trips and give more consistent coverage.

Measure your rear windows before ordering, since coverage varies a lot between hatchbacks, sedans and four wheel drives. Fit them to the rear windows where your pet travels and keep the driver's line of sight clear, as tinting and screening rules differ by state and apply to the front windows and windscreen.

Shade Is Not Air Conditioning

A screen reduces glare and direct sun. It does not make a parked car safe. Never leave a pet in a stationary vehicle on a warm day, no matter how much shade you have rigged up, because interior temperatures climb well beyond the outside air within minutes. Brachycephalic breeds, thick coated dogs, seniors, pregnant bitches and young litters have even less margin than most.

Pair shade with proper restraint. A dog should travel in a crate or on a dog seat belt or car harness, cats belong in a secured cat carrier, and a seat cover saves your upholstery on the way home.

Ready for cooler trips? Explore the RPBA collection of car window screens and sunshades.