Tips for Safe Driving With Pets In The Car
As a nation of pet lovers & with 45 percent of us in the United Kingdom owning some sort of animal. Inevitably at some point, your best friend will need to tag along for a trip to the vets or a long road trip. So take heed of the rules & keep your self-safe with our top tips.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code states “When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”
1. Dogs should be secured into the car with a harness attached to the seat belt, they can also travel in the boot with the dog securely in place. make sure you remember to remove the parcel shelf
2. On a long Journey don’t feed 2hrs before travel to avoid car sickness.
3. Smaller pets cats, rabbits etc in pet carrier & secured with a seat belt
4. Always carry water in case your pet overheats in an emergency.
5. Use sunshades to cover the windows when it is hot or very sunny, NEVER leave your pet alone in a hot car. Keep your car well ventilated.
6. Make it comfortable, take a favourite toy as a distraction or a familiar blanket.
7. Don’t allow your pet to ride with their head outside the window, it may seem cute but can be potentiality dangerous.
8. Keep your vehicle cool & well ventilated. Ensure all cages & crates are secure
Upon reaching your destination Rule 56 of the Highway code “Dogs. Do not let a dog out on the road on its own. Keep it on a short lead when walking on the pavement, road or path shared with cyclists or horse riders.”
