Drivers with dogs in car face fines for not making 'exercise stops'

Drivers risk an unlimited fine if they don’t keep their pet safe while driving and experts have provided five top tips for safely driving with pets, including how to restrain them and what to pack. Julie Daniels at Compare the Market explained how to manage car sickness in pets to ensure a smooth journey for all.

According to a new study, three-quarters of dog owners are planning to take them away on a holiday with them in 2024. But whether they're staying in the UK or heading further afield, drivers could face penalties if they don’t prioritise the safety of their dog or other pets when driving.

With this in mind, the car insurance experts at Compare the Market have shone some light on the rules of the road that pet owners need to follow, and they’ve also provided some top tips for driving with pets as we head into summer. Under rule 57 of The Highway Code, animals must be suitably restrained at all times when in the car, so that they don’t distract the driver, and keep everyone in the vehicle safe.

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Failure to comply with this could see drivers facing a charge of careless and inconsiderate driving, which could lead to an unlimited fine, and three to nine points on their licence. Plus, if a pet isn’t restrained and causes an accident, drivers may find that their car insurance provider refuses to pay out.

Drivers are told: "One of the best ways to keep pets safe in the car is to put them in a crate or carrier. It needs to be well-ventilated, allow for enough room for the pet to stand up and turn around, and also should be strapped in so it doesn’t move around. Different animals might also have slightly different needs. For dogs, it’s important that they’re able to see their owner out of the carrier to reduce their anxiety. Cats and rabbits will want their favourite items in their crate to make them feel safe."

Experts went on: "For dogs in particular, using a specialised harness or seat belt can be an alternative way to keep them safe and restrained while in a vehicle. These will allow them to partially move and even sit upright. Drivers just need to make sure they are restrained enough so they aren’t able to hang their heads out of the window, as dust or debris can fly into their eyes, and they are more at risk of serious injury."

Drivers should never leave animals alone in vehicles and have also been told to bring food and necessities. Motorists should also try to make regular stops so they can check their pet is doing okay, and keep an eye out for signs of overheating or car sickness, such as heavy panting.

Regular stops are also a good chance for pets to get some exercise, and lots of motorway service stations have grassy areas where pets (and owners) can stretch their legs.