Dogs in hot cars: Driving safety and the law

Our dogs are more than just pets - they're family! When summer rolls around, we want to include them in our adventures. But before you buckle up with your furry friend, let's make sure you know the ins and outs of travelling with pets in the car. And if you ever spot a dog left in a hot car, here's what you need to do to keep them safe and sound.

What to do if you see a dog locked in a hot car

If the pet is showing signs of heatstroke

Spotting a dog in distress on a hot day is a heartbreaker.

Here are the signs of heatstroke to look out for:

• Heavy panting
• Excessive drooling
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting
• Disorientation or stumbling
• Gums that are red or very pale

If a dog is showing any of these signs, you should ring 999 right away.

If the dog's condition looks serious, and you're still waiting for the police, you may feel like you should break the car window yourself. Seeing a dog suffer in the heat is distressing, but this can count as criminal damage, so only do so as a last resort.

The RSPCA state that: 'Legally, you can commit damage if you believe the car owner would consent to it if they knew the dog was in danger.'

So, if you're certain that you need to take action yourself, take photos and videos of the dog, and tell the police what you intend to do. You may need to defend yourself in court, so if there are other witnesses, take their names and phone numbers.

If the pet isn't showing signs of heatstroke

If the dog isn't showing signs of heatstroke, you should try to assess how long they've been left in the car. To work this out, you can:

• Check for a pay-and-display ticket that can help you work out how long the dog has been in the vehicle.
• Note down the car's make and registration.
• If you are in a public place like a shop or an event venue, ask staff to make a PA announcement.
• Make sure that you or someone else stays with the dog. If they start to show any signs of heatstroke, call 999 straight away.

The RSPCA have a cruelty line for advice on 0300 1234 999. But if the situation is an emergency, calling 999 should be your first step.

What to do once the dog is free

When the dog is out of the car, the next steps depend on whether they have heatstroke or not.

If you suspect heatstroke, the first thing you should do is move them to a cooler area. This might be in the shade, or in a well-ventillated building nearby.

Offer the dog water to drink, and use cool water to dampen their body. It's important not to use freezing cold water to cool the dog down too quickly, as this can make them go into shock. Using a wet towel for short periods can also help.

Even if you don't suspect heatstroke, or the dog seems better, you should still seek vetinary attention. Heatstroke causes unseen damage to organs and tissues, so it's always best to get the dog checked for any underlying issues.

Travelling with pets in cars during the summer

Planning a summer trip with your pooch to the park or beach? Let's make sure they stay safe and sound. Here's a few things you could do when driving with pets in the heat:

• Keep your car windows slightly open to increase airflow. But don't let your dog hang their head out the window - it might look cute, but it's a big no-no for safety! They could injure themselves or catch debris in their eyes.
• Keep them hydrated. You can buy specialist bowls designed to be used in cars to avoid spills.
• Bring any food or necessities with you. You'll want to pack their bowl, food, poop bags, and any medication they may need. If you take regular trips with your pet, keeping some supplies in your car might be a good idea.
• Take regular stops to break up the journey. Service stations often have green spaces where your dog can get out and stretch their legs. Just make sure that you clean up any mess they make.
• Buy comfortable restraints. Specialised harnesses and seatbelts are designed to allow dogs to partially move around, and sit upright.
• Use a crate or pet carrier. The crate should be well-ventilated and strapped securely to your vehicle. It should also be big enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in.
• Ask a passenger to keep an eye on your pet whilst you're driving, and look out for signs of heatstroke. If you're alone, make sure you take regular breaks to check up on them. If you're worried, stop at the nearest safe place to see if they're okay.
• Get your pet used to travelling. For many dogs, going in the car can be a scary and traumatic experience. Practising for longer journeys by taking them on short trips is a good way to make them more at ease.

What our motor insurance expert says:

“You should never leave your dog unattended in your vehicle, even on days which you may think are more bearable. Even if you have a view of your car from further afield, doing so is irresponsible and can put your dog in great danger. The same goes for any pet which you may travel with over the summer. If you’re caught risking your pet’s life, you could face unlimited fines and be prosecuted by the police."

Louise Thomas Motor insurance expert

What are the dangers of driving with a pet?

Driving with a pet can be risky if you don’t take precautions. Here’s what to watch out for.

A proper restraint is a must! Without it, your pet could be seriously injured if you have to brake suddenly. An unrestrained pet can be thrown forward, harming themselves and possibly other passengers.

Keep distractions at bay. If your pet isn't secured they might move around and take your attention away from the road. Investing in pet restraints for your car helps ensure that everyone is safe.

The Highway Code states that animals must be restrained to stop you losing focus when driving.

What are the laws on driving with a pet?

Rule 57 of the Highway Code states that:

You should always make sure your pet is suitably restrained so they don't injure themselves or anyone else.

The law states that pets can travel in the front seat of your car, as long as they're restrained with a seatbelt or harness. You should always make sure that the seat is pushed right back, and that the passenger airbags are turned off. If possible, it's always better to put your dog in the backseat of your car, as this is the safest option for you and your pet.

What pet restraints can be used?

There are many different safe ways to restrain your pets while driving, including:

• A harness. These attach to the seatbelt buckle and keep your dog from moving around in the car.
• Crates. These can be a good option for dogs that are more nervous when travelling. They're a good way of stopping your dog from distracting you while driving.
• Carriers. They are made of softer materials than a crate and are primarily used for transportation. They aren't as big as crates, so they can be a better choice if your pet is a bit smaller.

The Center for Pet Safety is a non-profit organisation that crash tests and certifies several types of pet restraints. It's always a good idea to research the best type of restraint for your pet. That way you can make sure you're choosing the right one for you and your furry friend.

Checklist for driving with a pet

Checklist for driving with a pet

When travelling with your pet, it's always best to be prepared. Whether it's a long or short journey, it's good to make sure you have planned ahead. Here are a few things you'll want to consider before setting off with your pet:

• Make sure they've had plenty to drink and had time to go to the toilet.
• Pack your car with food, water, and any medicine they may need. A pet first aid kit is a good thing to keep with you.
• Plan where you are going to stop on your journey, researching service stations and rest stops before you start driving.
• Make sure you have the right pet restraints or crate, and that they are clean and in good working condition.
• A collar, lead, and/or harness so your dog can stretch their legs at rest stops. Your dog may be excitable or nervous in new and unfamiliar places, so it's best to keep them on a lead so they don't run away.
• Make sure their vaccinations are up to date. When travelling to any country in the EU, as well as Northern Ireland, your pet needs: a valid rabies vaccination, an animal health certificate, and a microchip.

Does driving with a pet affect your car insurance?

Driving with an unrestrained pet can affect your car insurance if you're involved in an accident.

You could face legal action if you get into a crash, and your pet was found to be unrestrained. It could count as dangerous driving if your dog was found to have distracted you.

If this is the case, your insurance provider is unlikely to pay out for any damage caused.

Injuries to your pet while driving won't be covered by car insurance, you'll need pet insurance for that. We offer a variety of different pet insurance plans, so you can put your mind at ease.