With the bank holidays just around the corner, road trips and dog-friendly getaways are calling!
But before you buckle up, it’s time to ask an important question: Is your dog travelling safely in your car? 🐾🚗 Whether you’re heading to the countryside or the coast, car safety for your four-legged friend is more than just a nice-to-have — it’s the law.
Why Car Safety for Dogs Matters
Under the UK Highway Code, pets must be properly restrained when travelling in a vehicle. It’s not just about avoiding fines — it’s about keeping you, your pet, and other road users safe.
🚨 Breaking the Rules Could..
- Cost You A fine of up to £5,000 if your dog isn’t properly restrained
- Points on your licence or a driving ban for serious offences
- Potential invalidation of your car and pet insurance
The Dangers of Driving With Unrestrained Pets:
An unsecured dog in the car can be a serious hazard:
🐶 Distraction: Dogs moving around the car can draw your eyes off the road
🚗 Obstruction: They could get in the way of your steering wheel, pedals, or gear stick
🧠 Reduced Reaction Time: distraction delays your responses, increasing accident risk
💥 Injury Risk: A sudden brake or collision can cause major harm to your dog
👀 Other Drivers: A dog sticking its head out the window can cause other drivers to become distracted
💡 Fact: Even at just 30mph, an unrestrained dog can be thrown forward with enough force to seriously injure both itself and passengers.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car
Here’s how to enjoy safe and stress-free travels:
✅ Use a crash-tested dog harness that attaches to the seatbelt
✅ Opt for a dog seatbelt restraint or crate
✅ Keep your dog in the back seat or boot area (with a dog guard)
✅ Make regular pit stops to allow your pup to stretch, hydrate, and go to the loo
✅ Never let your dog hang their head out the window — it’s dangerous and distracting
Travel Tip from Fido’s Trails
Our Fido Signature Lead features a built-in car seatbelt buckle, making it the perfect companion for road trips! Just clip it into your car’s seatbelt slot and you’re ready for a secure and smooth ride. 🐾
And if your able to - use a car crate in the boot of your car to protect your dog whilst driving. We know this option isn't viable to everyone - but its always best to secure your dog the best way you can whilst on your travels.
Final Thoughts as dog lovers and adventurers, we all want the same thing — safe, happy memories with our pups. So before your next road trip this bank holiday, take a moment to secure your co-pilot. Because a safe pup is a happy pup — and a safer road for everyone. 🛣️🐶
👉 Check out the Fido Signature Lead and make travel safer (and easier) this season!