Driving with your pet in the car can land you up to £5,000 fine this Christmas
MOTORISTS are being warned that driving with a pet in your car can land you a hefty fine of up to £5,000. Here’s who you can prevent yourself from landing a fine and being punished.
Millions of motorists will be getting away over the Christmas period and planning a long car journey.
Some households will put their pet in a kennel over the Christmas break but others will look to take their animal with them.
Drivers that do decide to take their pet away with them can, however, be putting themselves at risk of landing a number of hefty punishments as a result.
Motorists can be fined up to £5,000 for incorrectly transporting their beloved pet and could also invalidate their car insurance.
In addition to this, the pet or a passenger could also be severely injured if they are involved in an accident.
The Dogs Trust recently found nearly half of dog owners (nearly 2.5 million people) were unaware they may be breaking the law.
To help motorists avoid landing these punishments, Tom Preston, Managing Director at Hippo Leasing has put together some tips to enjoy a stress-free (and legal) drive home this Christmas.
Get your dog used to car journeys
If the animal is not used to travelling in a vehicle then it may be stressful for them. It would be worthwhile to put in some time getting your dog used to travelling in the car ahead of your trip.
It’s worth bringing treats, a familiar blanket and a favourite toy for it to help keep them calm and content on roads.
Preparation is key
Preparation is key to travelling safely and legally with your pooch.
Dogs need to be restrained when in the car in some capacity to prevent the driver landing a fine and the animal potentially being injured.
If your dog is going to be travelling in the boot of your car, it can be left to lay freely so long as it cannot climb into the passenger area – or if there is a strong built-in dog guard in-between. If your dog can climb over, you’ll need a travel cage.
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Rule 57 of the Highway Code offers some paws for thought, stating: “When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly.”
There are also a number of restraints, which are specifically designed seatbelts and harnesses to help carry your pet.
Driving in your car without on is illegal, leaving you at risk of a £5000 fine, invalid insurance or worse, a badly injured pet or family member if you are involved in an accident.
Stop for regular breaks
Much like people, pets also need regular breaks on a long journey. A pop-up water bowl is a good thing to carry so the pet can have a drink and re-hydrate.