Parking

Many of us learn the skills needed to drive to pass the drivers test and then quickly leave that knowledge behind. Have you ever been in a rush to get downtown to get your banking done and found once you got there that the only spaces that are available are ones that would require parallel parking? And you have no idea how to parallel park, especially in the middle of the hectic downtown traffic. Or have you tried to squeeze in some Christmas shopping only to find the parking lot jam packed, and the only way to find a parking spot would require extensive skills in reversing? Another lost skill.
I came across this and thought I would share. Often when we have been driving for several years we forget things like how to parallel park, unless we do it often. I know several people who would rather drive around the block several times than attempt to parallel park simply because they don't remember how to do it. This is a great reminder on how to park or even a great lesson for those just learning to drive.
 Whether you are a new driver or a veteran, these tips can be helpful. It would be a good idea to get out and do a little practicing so that if the opportunity presents it's self you are ready to use those skills and claim your spot! 

-Muriel

Travelling With Pets

 Our little furry family members are important to us. When planning to bring your little critters on the road with you there are a few things to keep in mind. Even if you are only travelling a short distance there are a few tips that could be helpful and may even save a life.

It’s nice to have our furry companions enjoy the excitement of a road trip, often there is nothing our K9’s like more than a trip in the car. You can see the genuine happiness in them as they hang their head out the window and let the wind blow through their ears. But, did you know that the wind blowing in your dog’s face can actually be dangerous? That’s right; even though he is having the time of his life he is at risk of numerous dangers like, getting hit by an object, developing a lung infection, or causing inner-ear damage. It’s best to be the big mean parent and ruin the fun for the sake of safety.

If you are planning to take your pet on a trip and they have not spent much time in a vehicle before then it’s a good idea to try and get them used to the environment a bit first. Take your cat or dog out to spend some time in the car for a while without going anywhere. Let them sniff around and get used the space and all of the new smells, this will help them to be more relaxed while travelling. You can also take him out and about around town on short little journeys to gradually get him used to being in the car. If you choose places that are more exciting like a trip to the dog park then it will make the outings that much more positive.  These practice runs can also give you an indication of whether your pet has any other issues that you need to be aware of like anxiety or car sickness. If there is a problem you can speak to your vet about medications to help.

You wouldn’t dream of putting your child in the car without securing them in a proper seat, so why would you not do the same for your pet. Your animals depend on you to keep them safe. A loose animal in the vehicle is dangerous, not only to you but to them as well. In the event that you have to slam on the breaks your pet becomes a projectile. Imagine little (or even big) “Fluffy” flying through the air, then slamming into you, your child, or even a window. That is not an image that is easy to think of, but it is a reality if you don’t take precautions to prevent it.  Another danger of having a loose pet in the vehicle is having them distract you while driving. A frightened pet could try and hide under your feet, making it near impossible to operate the brake and gas pedals. Or, if you are trying to get your pet to behave you are likely not watching the road.

Luckily, there are numerous ways to secure your pet to avoid disaster:

-  Crates are probably the best way to keep animals contained, especially when it comes to cats. If your pet is not used to being in a crate then you will want to make sure that you let them get used to it a bit first. Make sure that you secure the crate as well; you will want to strap it to something so that it can’t move around or it will also become a potential projectile.  You also want to make sure that your pet is comfortable inside the crate; they should have enough room to turn around and move. It’s also a good idea to make sure the interior walls of the crate are cushioned as well; you don’t want your pet to be hurt if he hits the walls in the event of sudden stops.

 - Another great way to keep your pet safe is with the use of a harness. They make pet friendly harnesses that attach to a regular seatbelt or ones that have straps that attach to the ceiling of your vehicle. These are great so you can still enjoy the company of your dog while you keep them safe and comfortable. Remember, the back seat is best for pets because the air bags in the front seat can cause serious injury in the event of an accident.

Now that you have your pet travelling safely we can look at a few other things that help make travelling with your pet easier.

Food – Make sure that you do not feed your pet for at least 3 to 4 hours before you leave. This will help prevent car sickness. If your pet needs to eat during the trip do not feed them in a moving vehicle, this could cause an upset tummy. Stop at a rest stop for him to eat and make sure you allow lots of time for the food to digest before getting back on the road.

Water – Fresh water should always be available to your pet. Bring bottled water along so you can make sure that can keep them well hydrated. There are special water dispensers available to attach to the inside of crates. Also, you can buy collapsible bowls that are great for food and water while travelling.

Identification – I.D. tags are important while travelling, make sure your pet is wearing one. In the event of an accident your pet could get loose and become lost, this ensures that he will have a better chance of being returned to you. Also, if your pet is travelling in a crate, make sure that the crate is labelled with your pets name, your name and address and cell phone number. The more information you can provide the better.

Travel Kit – Put together a few items that you can have easy access to during your travels. Use a small bin with lid to keep it all contained. Your kit should include: Pet health records (in case of an emergency trip to the vet), nail clippers, liquid bandage, pooper scooper, waste bags, treats, extra dog leash, and at least one favorite toy.

During the trip make sure your pet is content and comfortable. Having a toy available often helps them to be more relaxed and occupied. It is also important that you make frequent stops to allow your pet to stretch his legs and have bathroom breaks (always clean up after your pet.) When you stop to let your dog out ensure that there is lots of space to walk him and make sure he is always on a leash. If you have to leave your pet in the vehicle then park in the shade and leave the windows open. Do not leave your pet for long periods of time, even if the windows are open, it doesn’t take long for temperatures become dangerous.

Hopefully these tips can help you to have a successful road trip with your best friend. Remember to use these safety tips even if you are just travelling around town. Accidents are not planned and these few precautions could save you or your pet from injury, they could even save life.

-Muriel Rolufs

That Sleazy Used Car Salesman

It must be one of the biggest stereotypes around...“That Sleazy Used Car Salesman.”   It‘s even an easy Halloween costume, just put on a cheap suit and grease your hair back and Voila!

So why do they get such a bad rap? Well, probably because they deserved it! Let’s face it; the used car business hasn't been the most honest industry around. When you are investing a large sum of money to get you and yours around safely, it’s personal.

It happens at our car lot every day, the sales staff sees a customer out perusing the lot looking for great deals, they decide to go out and introduce themselves and see if there is anything they can help with and BAM... “JUST LOOKING!!!”  is snapped at them while the customer briskly heads the other way.

Now, you can’t blame people for the fear they have of being swindled by one of those crooked car salesmen, but I hope to give you some food for thought and hopefully change your opinion of the used car industry.

There has to be a change of attitude when dealing with car sales people because the used car industry has changed. Let’s keep up with the times.

Firstly, times have changed; consumers are more educated than ever before. With the help of the internet, knowledge is easily accessible by everyone and anyone in any business is aware of this. No one is trying to hide anything anymore, it’s pointless.

Secondly, how do you feel when you go into a store and there is not a single knowledgeable staff member to be seen? Consumers are much more demanding than ever before, they want help NOW. Realize that that sales person who comes to say hello is doing just that, providing you with knowledge and service.

Thirdly, yes the car sales person is probably working on a commission of some sort. No, this shouldn't cause you to respect them any less. Not every car lot operates a high pressure commission environment. Plus, does it bother you that the lady at the electronic store where you bought your camera works on commission? Or, the guy that sold you your washer and dryer?  Probably not, and it shouldn't. Just like it shouldn't make a difference on the car lot. Almost all sales staff work on commission, this doesn't make them less helpful or less knowledgeable.

Fourthly, sales people are people too. How would you like to go to work every day knowing that you want to do your best to help others and know that the majority of people have a bad opinion of you without even knowing you?  Think of how nerve wracking it would be to go introduce yourself to potential customers and fear that they already have a preset opinion of you as a crook.

Fifthly, who would want to have unhappy customers? When helping customers pick out a vehicle, sales staff genuinely wants their customers to be happy all around. As I stated earlier, times have changed. Not only can customers research via the internet, they can also share their experiences quickly and easily with social media. When running a business it’s always best to have people beaming with pride over their purchase and experience.  A good dealership will want their reputation to keep their customers coming back and referring their friends and family too.

Sixth, keep in mind that the car industry is one of the only industries that have their customers being dishonest when trying to make a deal. That’s right, the customers aren't always honest. Because of the past reputation set by “Sleazy used car salesmen” customers are on guard trying to protect themselves by not always divulging truthful information, and. Who. Can. Blame. Them.  But it does make it hard to really help people to get the best deal.

So, with all this being said, next time you decide to check out our car lot I hope you will leave the stereotype’s behind. The best way to look for a car is to be open, friendly and honest, just like you would like us to treat you. It’s okay if you are “just looking!” It’s okay if you are nervous. Realize that the sales staff are here to help you, they want you to have a purchase that makes you happy, fit’s your lifestyle and doesn't take you to the cleaners with insane payments.

Now realize that I can only speak on our behalf, this is how we operate. I would hope the other car dealerships would have their businesses run this way too.   

-Muriel Rolufs