Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has issued a stark warning to pet owners who may be unknowingly breaking the law by failing to properly restrain their dogs while travelling in a car. Under the Highway Code, drivers can face fines of up to £5,000 and penalty points on their licence for not securing an animal in a moving vehicle. Additionally, flouting these rules could invalidate both car and pet insurance, blocking any successful claims if an accident occurs.
The warning comes after a driver shared a harrowing experience on social media, recounting how she rear-ended another vehicle with her mother's Chihuahua on her lap. The airbag deployed, and she feared she had killed the dog. Fortunately, the pet survived after emergency veterinary treatment, but the driver said she had nightmares for years. Her own dog, strapped into a car seat in the back, was unharmed.
Rob Bays, canine behaviour and training manager at Battersea, emphasised the importance of making dogs comfortable in the car to reduce stress and anxiety. He advised familiarising pets with the vehicle before long journeys and ensuring they are suitably restrained with a seat belt harness, pet carrier, crate or guard. This prevents distraction to the driver and reduces the risk of injury during sudden stops.
Halfords echoed the advice, noting that Rule 57 of the Highway Code requires dogs to be suitably restrained. While the code does not specify a particular method, it recommends harnesses, carriers, cages or guards. Dogs should not travel in the passenger seat, especially if the car has a passenger airbag, as this can cause driver distraction and serious injury. Failure to comply can lead to a £5,000 fine and even a court appearance for driving without due care and attention.
