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Thinking of a road trip this summer?
Whether you’re driving with your doggie or motoring with your moggie, it’s really important that your pets are happy, comfortable and – most importantly – safe when they travel with you in the car.
In March this year, the laws on child booster seats changed to make travelling in cars safer for children. We’re used to strapping our kids in before we set off on a summer day trip or holiday, but what about our other family members? Don’t our four-legged friends deserve to be safe and secure too?
The Highway Code requires dogs and other animals to be suitably restrained so they don’t distract or interfere with the driver of the vehicle.
Having your pets loose in the car can be potentially stressful – and dangerous. They can easily distract you from the road or interfere with the steering wheel, gear stick or pedals. And if you had an accident, your pet could be seriously hurt or injure another passenger if they’re not restrained.
The best way for most dogs to travel is with a pet seat belt attached to a secure harness – always check that it fits correctly for your dog’s size and weight. For very small dogs, cats and small furries, a pet carrier or travel cage is an ideal way to keep them safe, but make sure the door is secure and the cage is in a secure place and can’t fall off a seat – you don’t want them escaping or being injured mid-journey.
Simple restraints and normal carriers might stop dogs and cats moving around but might not protect them in an accident – so look out for crash-tested products if you want your pet to be super-safe on the road.
Top tips for trouble-free travel
Don’t let your dog lean out of the car window while you are travelling. It is extremely dangerous for the dog and could distract other drivers.
Use a crash-tested seatbelt and harness or pet carrier to prevent distractions and keep everyone safe.
Take regular breaks to exercise your pets and give them fresh water.
Never ever leave pets unattended in a vehicle. Even with the window open, cars quickly become ovens in warm and hot weather.
Get your pets used to travelling in a car. Start with short trips and build up. Speak to your vet if your pet shows anxiety or fear when travelling.