Whether you’re going to the vet, to the beach or on holiday, your pet will be travelling by car with you — and that involves more than just ‘opening the door and letting them get in’. A dog or cat left unrestrained inside the car distracts the driver, is thrown about in the event of an accident and may injure itself and the other passengers.
Restraint: dogs on a lead, cats in a carrier
The safest way is to keep each animal secured. A medium or large dog should wear a harness attached to its own seatbelt or be confined to a designated area of the vehicle. A cat must always be inside a closed and secure carrier, even on short journeys — at the first sign of a scare, a loose cat will hide under the pedals.
Protects the seat and the passenger area
As well as safety, there’s comfort and cleanliness to consider. A protective seat cover shields the upholstery from hair, litter and accidents, and provides the dog with a safer, non-slip surface. In open-top cars, a raised basket helps keep the dog visible and safe.
Prepare before setting off
- Fast for 2 to 3 hours — this reduces the risk of vomiting whilst travelling.
- A short walk before getting into the car — a dog that has been out for a walk is calmer and relaxes more quickly.
- Water should be readily available on long journeys, with stops to hydrate and stretch their legs.
- Ventilation — never leave your pet alone in the car, even with the windows open; the temperature can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
How to help your pet enjoy car journeys
If your pet gets anxious, get them used to it gradually: start with short sessions, with a positive destination (a walk, a treat, a park). Reward calm behaviour with treats and keep the travel routine predictable.
Long journeys: planning your stops
On journeys lasting several hours, plan a stop every 2–3 hours so your dog can relieve itself and drink water. For cats, carriers with breathable mesh and a familiar blanket help reduce stress. Also take a poo bag and an extra cloth for any unexpected messes.
With the right restraints, planning and a bit of training, car journeys become a stress-free routine — for the driver and for your dog or cat. 🐾