Top Tips to Transport Your Dog Safely

As the year edges toward June, and the official start of the summer season, the temptation to take the dog on a day out increases.

But do you know the rules around transporting your pet in a vehicle? Perhaps reminding yourself might be an idea, with the punishment being pretty steep.

Although there isn’t a specific law regarding pets in transit, drivers could be fined £1,000 for driving without proper control of a vehicle or, even worse, they could be charged with driving without due care and attention, which can carry a fine of up to £5,000 and up to nine penalty points.

So here are a few helpful hints and tips for transporting your pet, courtesy of rover.com:

A harness or seat belt is required

Moving vehicles are an exciting and adventurous place for our pets. But that can lead to any number of problems as dogs forget their boundaries and intrude on yours, as a driver. Using a suitable restraint, such as a specific dog seat belt, ensures they remain restricted but comfortable in their own space.

Is a crate the answer?

Some pet owners opt to use a crate to maintain order in a car with a dog. This limits the space for the dog to venture in and ensures a safer journey for all concerned.

Barriers to keep the dog in the boot

If you would like more space for your pet, some owners opt for the boot, with the parcel shelf removed, as a place to keep pets. This can work as there is a partial barrier – with the seats forming a two-third block on the dog getting into the seated part of the car – but the addition of a fence which completes the blockade means there is no way the animal can get into the front. Even better, they have the whole boot space to move around in.

Take regular breaks on your journey

As with the humans in the car, it is always important to take breaks, especially on long journeys. This is equally necessary for your pet, so they can stretch their legs and relieve themselves in a place which isn’t your car!

Check the car's temperature

It is important to maintain a moderate temperature in the car for all passengers in the vehicle. Make sure the car isn’t too hot or cold and use the temperate controls to manage any changes.

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