Expert Warns You Could Be Fined £20,000 for Leaving Your Dog in the Car This Summer

Summer in Cornwall: Ensure Your Dog’s Safety While Travelling

As summer arrives in the UK, Cornwall is set to welcome a wave of visitors looking to enjoy its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes. However, with rising temperatures, it is crucial for both locals and tourists to reconsider the safety of travelling with pets, particularly dogs.

In light of the warmer weather, experts from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have highlighted essential guidelines for driving safely with pets. Ignoring these guidelines could result in severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential bans from owning animals.

What Not to Do When Driving with Your Dog

Leaving Your Dog Alone in the Car

Drivers who leave their dogs alone in a hot car risk a £20,000 fine and a potential future ban from owning animals. The interior of a car can become dangerously hot, even with windows slightly open, leading to heat-related illnesses or even death in pets. This practice is discouraged year-round but becomes especially hazardous during the summer.

Letting Dogs Stick Their Heads Out of Windows

While it might seem adorable, allowing dogs to stick their heads out of car windows is highly discouraged. This behaviour not only endangers the pet but also other road users. Drivers caught with their pets in this position could face fines of up to £5,000. Keeping pets inside the vehicle at all times is crucial for their safety and that of others on the road.

Allowing Dogs to Roam Free in the Car

Unrestrained dogs can be a significant distraction to drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. To ensure safety, pets should be kept in a fixed position within the vehicle. Preventing dogs from jumping and climbing inside a moving car reduces the chances of accidents and injuries.

Essential Tips for Driving with Your Dog

Carry a Portable Water Bowl

Even though many service stations provide facilities for pets, carrying a portable water bowl ensures that your dog stays hydrated, especially during the summer. Dogs become increasingly thirsty in hot weather, making it essential to have water readily available.

Use a Dog Seat-Belt

Drivers can face fines of up to £5,000 if dogs are not suitably restrained in the car. A good-quality harness keeps pets safe and secure, minimising distractions and potential injuries. Ensuring your dog is appropriately restrained is crucial for their safety and yours.

Install Window Shades

While not specifically designed for pets, car window shades help keep dogs cool by blocking out bright and hot sunshine. This prevents the car’s interior from overheating and keeps the environment more comfortable for pets during travel.

Expert Advice

Keith Hawes, Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, emphasises the importance of pet safety during summer travels. “As summer approaches, many dog owners will be heading out to enjoy staycations, beach days, and trips out with their dogs. Whilst driving with your dog is legal, it is crucial for pet owners to ensure their pets are travelling safely and in line with the law, whether that be with seatbelts and window shades. It can take just 15 minutes of your dog being left in a hot car before they can become severely unwell, so make sure your pets are looked after and safe when travelling this summer.”

With these tips in mind, Cornish pet owners can enjoy the sunny weather while ensuring their furry friends remain safe and healthy. Remember, the summer season makes it more important than ever to follow these guidelines and protect your pets during travel.