Image: Tim Mossholder from Unsplash
National Pet Travel Safety Day was on the 2nd of January this week, which is a good reminder of the importance of travelling correctly with pets in a car, both for their safety and to prevent distraction to the driver.
The Highway Code states that animals should be "suitably restrained," and this can be done in several ways. Cats should always be transported in a secure carrier. The carrier can be further secured by using a seatbelt, and some models are specially designed to accommodate this. Meanwhile, the Highway Code states that dogs must be safely secured with one of either "a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage, or dog guard.". Failure to do so could result in a fine or invalidate your car or pet insurance!
A well-fitting harness secured via a seatbelt adaptor is a good solution, but be aware that while a dog guard will prevent injury to human passengers in the event of an accident, it might not provide the same protection to your dog. For both dogs and cats, the back seat is often a safer option, as if an airbag deploys, it could cause injury.
Although a common sight, do not let your dog hang his or her head out of the car window as you drive; any flying debris could cause injury, and a fall from the vehicle could be devastating.
When travelling during hot weather, remember to be prepared and mindful of the temperature within the vehicle. Temperatures can climb rapidly within a car, so in the summer months do not leave animals in the car unattended, even if the windows are open. Bring water to offer to your pet and allow enough time in your journey for regular breaks so you and your pet can stretch your legs.
Travelling abroad requires additional consideration. Requirements vary by destination; however, commonly your pets will need to be vaccinated against rabies at least 28 days before you travel. After leaving the EU, pets from the UK must be is-sued with an "animal health certificate"—an" important transport document that con-firms rabies vaccination status and other identification and health requirements. If you intend to take your pet abroad, your vet can provide a rabies vaccination and help arrange putting in place the necessary documents.
If this article has raised any concerns, or you require any advice on travel vaccinations, please call us at Coquet Vets on 01665 252250.
