The Law on Travelling with your Dog in the Car

From beach trips to vet visits, there are many occasions where your dog may need to hop in the car with you. While it’s important to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible when on board, there are also rules and regulations that must be followed.

In this article, we’ll cover the UK law around travelling with your dog in the car to ensure you’re compliant and travelling safely.

What is the UK law on having your dog in the car?

Your dog must be suitably restrained

While the laws around having your dog in the car have changed over time, Rule 57 of the Highway Code currently states that dogs must be suitably restrained while inside the vehicle. This is to ensure the dog doesn’t distract the driver and is less likely to cause injury to themselves or others if the car stops quickly.

Your dog can't travel in the passenger seat

The Highway Code also states that your dog can’t travel in the passenger seat as this is also more likely to cause driver distraction. It can be particularly dangerous if the car has a passenger airbag.

Fines

If pet owners fail to adhere to any of these rules when their dog or another type of animal is in the car, it can be considered as ‘driving without due care and attention’ and could result in a £5,000 fine and even lead to a court appearance.

What is classed as a suitable restraint?

The Highway Code doesn’t specifically state that a dog should wear a seat belt or a harness while in the car. However, it states that a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.

A pet carrier such as the 3-in-1 Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System is a fantastic option if you regularly travel with your pet as it gives you the ultimate peace of mind that you are adhering to the Highway Code, and that your dog is comfortable, protected and safely restrained every time you travel with them. It includes a luxury carrier, ISOFIX base and an optional stroller frame for additional travel needs outside of your vehicle, making it a great all-in-one option for keeping your dog comfortable and secure while travelling.

Developed by Nuna, a world leader in premium baby gear, the 3-in-1 Tavo Maeve Pet Protection System has been subject to the same rigorous safety testing as child car seats at dynamic testing facilities. The carrier is quickly and easily secured into the car using the ISOFIX base which prevents it from moving or rotating in the event of a crash.

Pet travel and car insurance

It’s important to look at your car insurance details as this may include information about travelling with pets inside the vehicle. Many insurers won’t pay out if it’s clear you haven’t followed lawful travel procedures.

It’s also worth noting that even if your pet is suitably restrained, your car insurer won’t pay your vet bills, should your pet be injured inside the vehicle. In this instance, it’s crucial to take out dedicated pet insurance to cover any potential incidents.

General tips for travelling with your dog in the car

In addition to following the pet travel laws outlined in the highway code, here are also a few tips for ensuring safe and comfortable car journeys with your dog:

Make sure your dog is comfortable

When choosing a restraint for your dog, such as a cage or crate, make sure it’s big enough for your furry friend to rest comfortably. Place a dog bed inside the crate to ensure your dog will be nice and cosy on their travels.

Don't leave dogs in hot cars

This should go without saying but hot cars are extremely dangerous for dogs. If you’re visiting somewhere that’s not dog friendly, avoid travelling with them in these instances.

Invest in a pet carrier

As mentioned above, it’s recommended that smaller pets be kept in a pet carrier to help keep them secure and avoid them from moving around in the vehicle. The carrier should be big enough for them to stand up fully and turn position. A pet carrier also offers peace of mind that your pet can travel with you safely.

Avoid long journeys if your dog is not used to travelling in the car

If your dog is not a seasoned traveller or feels nervous in the car, it’s a good idea to just stick to short journeys. Doing more short trips regularly will help your pet get used to being in the car and will allow you to build up to the longer journeys.

So, the next time you’re planning to travel with your dog in the car, make sure you adhere to the Highway Code by ensuring they are suitably restrained for safe travel.

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