Highway Code could see drivers with pets slapped with £5k fine this bank holiday

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The bank holiday weekend most certainly calls for road trips.

Since millions of Brits own dogs, many adults will be taking to the motorways with their furry friends in the back.

But there's loads of rules to be aware of when driving around with your pets.

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The Highway Code states drivers must make sure their dogs or other animals are suitably restrained in the back seat.

If they're not tied up, the animals can distract you while you're 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.

While breaking the Highway Code doesn't come with a direct penalty, distracted motorists could be fined £1,000 for "careless driving".

The maximum fine for this is £5,000 and nine penalty points depending on the severity of the incident.

In extreme cases, a driving ban and compulsory re-test could be enforced.

Dog Behavioural Expert Adem Fehmi discussed canine travel safety in a blog post for heycar.

The expert said: "With our dogs joining us on more adventures than ever before, it is essential that we take steps to guarantee their comfort.

"At minimum, your car should be spacious enough to fit all passengers in without your dog needing to sit in a footwell or on someone's lap.

"Make sure to have air conditioning to ensure your dog's safety on those warmer days, and a large enough opening/access route for you to get your dog in and out of their designated space."

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With over 15 years' experience of working with dogs, Adem also put together the ultimate canine comfort checklist.

Canine Comfort Checklist:

Is your car safety device fitted correctly and comfortably?
Packed your dog's essentials?
Checked the weather forecast and planned for the weather?
Dog First Aid Kit to hand?
Aircon gassed for those warmer weather trips?

Before you go away

Prepare for car rides: Take a few short drives in the weeks leading up to your trip to get your pets used to the motion of the car.

Practice reward-based training: You should practice before you go ahead as your dog might not like reliable recall, long-line leads and harnesses.

During your travels

Be mindful in hot weather: Dogs can get hot in the heat, so make sure you plan holiday activities to accommodate the temperature, like walking early in the morning or evening.

Make sure you check the ground temperature to prevent burned paws.

Never leave your dog alone in the car: Even on moderately warm days, cars can become dangerously hot within minutes.

Coastal considerations: Heading to the beach? Remember to bring fresh water for your dog to drink and limit their exposure to salt water.

Be extra cautious around clifftops, as dogs may find it tricky to see the edge and stop in time – especially if they're prone to chasing birds.

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Motoring
Dogs
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Animals

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