Road Safety Week: Vet Warns Owners About Rising Risks for Pets

With Road Safety Week taking place on 17th November, veterinary experts are urging pet owners to stay alert near traffic as thousands of animals are killed on the roads every year.

According to the figures shared, around 80,000 dogs and 200,000 cats are killed by vehicles annually. Dr Sarah Jones, Head Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, says owners should take roadside dangers seriously.

She says: “Every pet owner wants to provide the very best care for their furry friends, but owning an animal means being responsible for their safety and protecting them from threats, with roadside dangers among the most serious. No matter how well-behaved your pet is, drivers can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to pay attention and stay alert.”

Cats

Sarah explains that darker winter days bring extra risks for cats that roam outdoors.

“As the days grow darker in the winter months, outdoor cats can be a particular concern for owners, especially those who may roam near busy roads. Ideally, avoid letting your cat out in the evening and instead allow them to roam outside during daylight hours when visibility is better and traffic is lighter. If your cat does go out at night, a reflective collar can help make them more visible to drivers.

“While you can’t control their movements once they’re outside, microchipping your cat ensures you can locate them more easily if they go missing or are involved in an accident. In the UK, it’s a legal requirement to microchip your cat once they are over 20 weeks old, so owners should ensure they are correctly following these guidelines.”

Dogs

For dogs, Sarah recommends keeping walks controlled and focused near traffic.

“When walking your dog near roads, always keep them on a short, sturdy lead. Even if you’re dog has excellent recall, it’s not worth putting them at any risk. Loud traffic and sudden noises can easily spook animals, and fast-moving cars pose a constant threat.

“A lead that doesn’t extend beyond the edge of the pavement keeps your dog safely away from traffic, while investing in a robust lead also reduces the risk of it snapping during use. Additionally, walking with your dog on the inside of the pavement will create a physical barrier between them and the road – an extra layer of protection.

“Particularly for those who walk their dog when it’s dark, reflective walking wear and coats help keep them visible on the pavement and when crossing roads. Owners can also take measures to ensure their own visibility on the roads by wearing reflective clothing.”

She also warns that owners should only walk as many dogs as they can safely control.

“If you own multiple dogs, only walk as many as you can safely control. If one behaves unpredictably, you may struggle to restrain them all, increasing the risk of an accident. Consider not just the number of dogs, but their size and strength.

“Even with a secure collar and lead, training your dog to respond to basic commands and remain calm in noisy environments is key. A well-trained, responsive dog gives you greater control and peace of mind when walking near busy roads. If your dog is still in training, harnesses can provide more control over their movements than a regular collar.”