Driving with pets in the UK: what you need to know

If you’re a pet owner in the United Kingdom, chances are you’ve considered taking your furry friend along for a ride at some point. After all, what’s better than bringing your best pal along on an adventure? Many people enjoy taking their pets with them when they go for a drive. However, before you hit the road with Fido or Fluffy in tow, there are a few things you need to know.

Legal requirements

The first thing you need to do before driving with your pet is make sure that both you,  your pet and your car are properly insured. In the UK, all drivers must have a valid driver’s licence, and all pets must be up-to-date on their vaccinations and have a collar with ID tags. Other requirements include:

• Pets in the UK should be microchipped and registered on an approved database
• Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies
• Cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies and have a booster vaccination every 3 years
• Dogs must wear a collar with their owner’s name, address, and phone number while in public
• All pets travelling to the UK from abroad must be microchipped and have a valid pet passport

Travelling with your pet in the car

Did you know it is illegal to drive with an unrestrained pet in the car? So you need to consider how you will restrain your pet while driving. Smaller pets can ride in a carrier or basket that is secured in the back seat. Larger pets should wear a harness that is tethered to the seatbelt or cargo area of the car. Never let your pet ride unrestrained in the car, as this can be dangerous for both you and your pet in the event of an accident.

Making sure your pet is comfortable

You also need to keep in mind that not all pets like riding in cars. If your pet gets anxious or car sick, there are a few things you can do to help them feel more comfortable:

• Let them get used to being in the car by taking them on short rides around the block before going on a longer trip.
• Try giving them small treats or toys to distract them from their anxiety.
• Make sure to take plenty of breaks so they can stretch their legs and use the bathroom. Just like humans, pets need to stretch their legs and use the restroom after being cooped up in a car for long periods of time.

If you’re going on a longer adventure, remember to plan your route accordingly and make sure to stop at rest areas or pet-friendly businesses where your furry friend is welcomed.

You may also need to consider the weather when deciding whether to travel with your pet. On hot days, make sure to have some water on hand for them to drink and consider opting for air conditioning or open windows. On colder days, bundle them up in a blanket or coat to keep them warm.

Make sure you feel confident

It’s natural to want to include your pets when hitting the open road. If you’re like most pet owners, your furry friend is an important part of the family. However, before driving with your pet, it’s important to make sure that both you and your animal are confident and comfortable. If your pet is nervous or unrestrained, they could become a distraction, which could lead to an accident. Similarly, if you’re not used to having an animal in the car, it can be difficult to focus on the road. To keep everyone safe, take some time to get acclimated to the situation before setting off on any journeys.

Driving with your pet can be a great way to bond with your furry friend and create lasting memories. However, it’s important to make sure that both you and your pet are prepared before hitting the road. By following the tips above, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone involved.