How to keep your pet safe and happy whilst travelling!

Added: 13 March 2019

Driving with dogs in the car

Is your dog suitably restrained in the car?

Many pet owners are unaware of this but you could now be faced with a fine and penalty points if your dog isn’t suitably restrained in your vehicle. According to the PDSA there are an estimated 8.9 million pet dogs in the UK and research from Uswitch has revealed 69% of UK drivers travel with their dog in the car.

The roads are a dangerous place and it is important to suitably restrain your pet to avoid any accidents, distractions to yourself/fellow drivers and protect your pooch from injury.

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes owners responsible for the welfare of their animals, and this includes in the car or another vehicle. This means that if you’re involved in an accident with an unrestrained pet in the car - you could find your car and pet insurance both invalidated.

We have put together a list of top tips to ensure the safety of your pet:

1. Use a dog crate, pet carrier or dog guard to secure them in the boot of your vehicle.

2. Seatbelt harness can also be used, it is recommended they sit in the back. However, if you wish to sit them in the front seat make sure to switch off the passenger side airbag and move the seat as far back as possible.

3. Ensure the harness is fitted correctly and sized appropriately, securing it to the seat belt attachment.

4. If your dog isn’t used to travelling in the car, place something that smells familiar in with them to give your pet comfort and reduce anxiety.

5. Always carry water, your dog may become dehydrated on long journeys.

6. If your dog suffers from travel sickness try to avoid bendy roads. Most dogs will outgrow this condition, but try to be mindful of it when driving.

7. Do NOT under any circumstances allow your dog to hang his head out the window. This could cause a serious accident and is a distraction to other drivers.

8. Do not leave you dog alone in the car, this is particularly dangerous on a hot day. According to Dog’s Trust less than 20 minutes in a hot car can be fatal to a dog.

Interested in keeping your dog safe with a guard? At Day’s we stock several different dog guards specifically for your vehicle. Click here to shop now.