Drive safely with your dog

This canine best friend isn’t actually driving of course. The car is parked and they look pretty happy here sitting up front and gazing out of the windscreen.What though, are the rules in the United Kingdom on driving safely with your dog?

There is no specific detailed legislation but there are guidelines set out in the Highway Code. It is very important to follow these guidelines and ensure that you correctly restrain your dog when travelling. Whilst not following the guidelines is not an offence in itself it may lead to a prosecution for driving without due care and attention. If you are involved in an accident then there is also a risk that your insurance might be invalid.

Driving safely with your dog requires that you restrain them effectively. This is both for their protection and also to ensure that they do not distract you whilst driving. How you do this will depend on the size of your vehicle and dog. You will also want to ensure that your pet is comfortable. Dogs should not ride in the front seats if at all possible and must never put their heads out of the window when the car is moving. If having your dog in the front passenger seat is unavoidable ensure that the air bag is switched off regardless of how you retrain your pet.

Restraining options

If you have a larger hatchback, SUV or estate car, a guard to keep them in the back is a possibility. Harnesses are also available to keep them attached to the back seat. Another option for driving safely with your dog is a carrying cage or crate like the one pictured below.

Alphapet® stock a range of pet enclosures including the AP-005 Heavy Duty Dog Cage. These cages come in four different sizes and include a solid metal base, a fleece bed, and a blanket. They have a carrying handle and fold flat for ease of storage when not in use. The individual product pages on the website give the full dimensions for each size and examples of breeds for which they are suited.

Does your dog enjoy car rides?

However you chose to protect your pet on your journey, it is of also important that they are comfortable and not stressed. Many dogs enjoy rides in the car but others may be less happy. This can be for many reasons. Some dogs may been travel sick, or they may suffer anxiety if they associate getting into the car with something they don’t like, such as a trip to the vet perhaps. Travel sickness is quite a common problem for dogs. Many will grow out of this but if it continues then your vet may recommend medication. The PDSA website has a useful section on dog travel sickness.

A young dog or puppy will most likely take to car rides very easily. Older dogs that don’t like to get into cars may take some gentle persuasion to help them to overcome their anxiety. Treats or a favourite toy or blanket may help but it is very much going to be a case of taking time. Playing games with them in and around the car can help them to associate getting in the car and with having fun.

It also helps if your dog associates car rides with a fun destination. Not all journeys are for the same reason of course, but if there are walks, treats and lots of fuss and attention at the destination, that is a big bonus for your dog.

Need more help?

If you have a persistent problem because your dog is anxious about car travel you may need some more help. Fortunately there is a lot advice on issues like this online. Just search for advice on taking your dog in the car. It may well be a case of trial and error but with patience you will find out the best way to make your pet feel at ease.

Once they feel comfortable and start to relax, they will be much happier getting into the car. Start them off with short journeys and then build up from there. In time they will become accustomed to trips in the car. Once this happens you will be able to take them on longer journeys.

On your journey

If you are taking your dog on a long journey, then there are other points to consider. Remember to stop for a break every couple of hours. Let your dog stretch their legs and go to the toilet in necessary. It is also a good idea for humans of course! Don’t forget to always take some water with you on your trips.

It is OK to have air conditioning on but make sure it is not blowing directly into your dog’s face. If you open a window, ensure that your dog cannot get their head outside. You can also attach a sun-shield to the side window next to your dog. These are designed primarily for use with young children but are are good at protecting your dog from direct sunlight. Of course, never leave your pet alone in the car. It can heat up very quickly on a warm day.

It is best not to feed your dog immediately before setting out on a long journey to help to avoid upset stomachs. Allow two hours between feeding and setting off if possible, On the other hand, on long journeys it is best to take some food with you in case of unforeseen delays.

And when you get to your destination, then both you and your dog can relax and have a good time. Go for a walk in the country, or along the beach. Check first of course that dogs you can indeed take your dog on that beach! Let them have a good run around and burn off some excess energy. If your dog has a good time they will remember that and this will increase their enthusiasm for trips in the car. Have fun!