How to Drive Safely with Pets in the Car

Whether you're taking your dog to the park, travelling to the vet or heading away on holiday, driving with pets requires a little extra preparation. Unsecured animals can become a distraction and may also be at risk of serious injury if you brake suddenly or are involved in an accident.

At Sandicliffe, we're committed to helping drivers and their passengers stay safe on every journey. In this guide, we'll explain how to travel safely with pets in the car, including how to secure them properly, reduce distractions and make longer journeys more comfortable.

Why Is It Important to Secure Pets in the Car?

An unrestrained pet can move around the vehicle while you're driving, creating a distraction and potentially interfering with your ability to control the car.

In the event of sudden braking or a collision, an unsecured animal can also be thrown through the vehicle.

Keeping your pet properly restrained helps protect both them and everyone else inside the vehicle.

How Should You Secure a Dog in the Car?

There are several ways to safely transport a dog, depending on their size and your vehicle.

Dog Seat Belt Harness

A specially designed dog harness can attach to a seat belt and help keep your dog secure on the back seat.

Make sure the harness is correctly fitted and designed specifically for use in vehicles.

Dog Crate

A suitably sized, secured crate can be a good option for smaller dogs.

The crate should be stable and positioned where it cannot move around during the journey.

Dog Guard

For larger dogs travelling in the boot of an estate car or SUV, a properly fitted dog guard can prevent them from entering the passenger area.

A suitable boot liner can also help protect your vehicle from hair, dirt and muddy paws.

Can Pets Travel in the Front Seat?

It's generally safer for pets to travel in the rear of the vehicle, properly restrained.

If a pet is travelling in the front passenger seat, an activated airbag can pose a serious risk in a collision.

Never allow your pet to sit on your lap while driving.

Keep Pets Away From the Driver

One of the most important rules when driving with a pet is to prevent them from distracting you.

Your pet should never:

• Sit on your lap

• Sit loose in the footwell

• Climb between the front seats

• Obstruct your view

• Interfere with the steering wheel or pedals

Even a momentary distraction can have serious consequences.

How to Prepare Your Pet for a Car Journey

If your pet isn't used to travelling in a vehicle, introduce them gradually.

Start with short journeys and gradually increase the distance.

Before setting off:

• Allow your pet to settle down.

• Avoid feeding a large meal immediately before travelling.

• Take them for a toilet break.

• Make sure they're comfortable with their restraint.

• Bring familiar items such as a blanket or toy.

This can help reduce anxiety and make travelling more enjoyable.

Tips for Long Car Journeys with Pets

Long journeys require additional planning.

Take regular breaks so your pet can:

• Stretch their legs

• Drink water

• Go to the toilet

• Get some fresh air

Plan your stops in advance and check that your chosen stopping locations are suitable for pets.

Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, particularly during warm weather.

What Should You Take When Travelling With a Pet?

For longer journeys, consider taking:

• Fresh drinking water

• A suitable water bowl

• Food

• Lead and collar

• Waste bags

• A blanket

• Any necessary medication

• Pet cleaning supplies

• A favourite toy

Having everything prepared before you leave can make the journey much easier.

Can Pets Travel in the Boot?

Dogs can travel in the boot of a suitable estate car, SUV or hatchback, provided they are properly secured.

Use an appropriate dog guard, crate or other suitable restraint to prevent your pet from moving into the passenger compartment.

Make sure there is enough ventilation and space for your pet to travel comfortably.

Never Leave Your Pet Alone in a Hot Car

Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise very quickly, even when the outside temperature doesn't seem particularly high.

Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, even if the windows are open or you're only planning to be away for a few minutes.

If you see an animal in distress inside a vehicle, seek appropriate assistance rather than putting yourself at risk.

UK Rules for Driving With Pets

UK Highway Code guidance states that drivers should make sure dogs and other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly.

Suitable methods can include a pet carrier, dog cage, dog harness or dog guard.

It's important to make sure your chosen restraint is appropriate for your pet and vehicle.

Common Mistakes When Driving With Pets

Avoid:

• Allowing your pet to travel loose.

• Letting your pet sit on your lap.

• Allowing your pet to stick their head out of the window.

• Leaving pets unattended in hot vehicles.

• Taking journeys without planning suitable breaks.

• Using unsuitable or poorly fitted restraints.

A little preparation can make a significant difference to everyone's safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to drive with an unrestrained dog?

The Highway Code states that animals should be suitably restrained while travelling in a vehicle so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or others. Failing to control your vehicle properly could also result in penalties.

Where is the safest place for a dog in a car?

The rear of the vehicle is generally the safest place, provided your dog is properly secured using an appropriate harness, crate or dog guard.

Can my dog sit on my lap while driving?

No. A dog sitting on your lap can significantly distract you and interfere with your ability to control the vehicle.

Can I leave my dog in the car?

You should never leave a dog unattended in a vehicle in conditions where they could become distressed or overheated. Cars can become dangerously hot very quickly, even on relatively mild days.

Summary

Driving with pets can be safe and enjoyable when you take the right precautions. Keeping your pet properly restrained, preventing distractions and planning regular breaks will help protect both your animal and everyone else in the vehicle.

At Sandicliffe, we're here to help you find a vehicle that works for your whole family, including your four-legged passengers. Visit your local Sandicliffe dealership to explore our range of practical and family-friendly vehicles and speak to our team about finding the right car for your needs.