Driving With Pets | Saga Car Insurance

Preparing to travel with your pet

Pets do not always enjoy journeys, so start with a run out to the shops to get them used to your car before embarking on a long trip. Pack a bag of their familiar things: favourite toy, bowl, blanket, food and treats, plus essentials such as waste bags or a portable toilet.

Never leave them unattended and make sure you maintain a steady airflow and ambient temperature inside the vehicle. If you are travelling overnight, give your pet a place to sleep that’s free from noise and harsh lighting.

Is it illegal for dogs to be unrestrained in a car?

Yes, according to UK laws on driving with dogs in your car it is illegal to for a dog to be loose in transit.

The Highway Code states that if you’re driving with dogs, they must be restrained by either a crash-tested seatbelt harness, dog guard, a secured cage or pet carrier.

Failing to use a restraint for your pet can lead to points on your licence, a fine and it may void your car insurance policy.

Important dog car safety measures

Dogs should not be in a position where they can distract the driver or hurt themselves if there’s a sudden stop. Ideally, keep them on the back seat in a secured position.

If a dog has to travel in the front, the driver must secure them, disable the airbag and push the seat back as far as it will go. Do not let your dog have its head out of the window. Dust and debris may cause irritation or injury.

Tips on driving with dogs

Go for a long walk before you set off.
Check on their wellbeing often.
Make frequent stops for exercise, water and toilet breaks.
Use window shades to keep them cool in the car.
Always keep them on a lead when going outside.
Don’t feed them right before or immediately after you travel, as this can cause sickness.

Can I drive with my cat in the car?

Basically, the same rules apply as for dogs. You can travel with your cat in a car seat that’s been specially adapted or use an impact resistant cat carrier that is large enough for them to move around in and is secured by a seatbelt. Don’t let them roam free in the car. Cats can become agitated in transit, so consider brushing their fur with a calming spray to help settle nerves.

Travelling with other animals

Rabbits, ferrets or rodents should be secured in a ventilated, chew-proof travel cage with lots of their usual bedding and a shaded hiding place. Bring moisture-rich foods such as carrot or cucumber to prevent spills.

Reptiles need to stay warm on the move, so you’ll need to tuck some heat pads alongside their vivarium and add some damp paper towels if they need moisture to thrive.

Public transport and pets

Your pet carrier must be secure and robust enough to withstand transit through busy stations and on tubes or buses. Choose a gym bag carrier with mesh sides or a pet buggy to give privacy and stability when on the move.

Animal health certificate

If you’re driving in Europe with a dog, cat or ferret, you’ll need an animal health certificate.

Your vet can issue a certificate for up to five pets if you are travelling to the EU from Great Britain or Northern Ireland. Your vet will need proof of their vaccination history and their microchip date. Your pet must have a valid rabies jab or booster. If your pet needs a rabies vaccination, you’ll need to allow at least 21 days before they can travel.

Your animal health certificate be valid for EU entry for up to 10 days after issue and for up to 4 months in the EU and re-entry to the UK. Tapeworm treatments are needed for entry to Ireland, Finland, Malta and Norway.

Holidays with pets

Pay close attention to the rules of the country you are travelling to with your canine or cat companion. In addition to animal health certificates, bring insurance documents and any medication your pet may need for health needs or travel sickness with you.

Check your travel insurance covers your furball for flying or if you have a pet travel extension on your pet insurance, which should cover you for vet fees in Europe and provide a travel allowance. Note that some air carriers will not transport certain animals, so you may need to consider a shipping service.

Standard pet policy and assistance dogs

Assistance, service or guide dogs are permitted in all public places and they travel for free on most forms of transport if you give 48-hours’ notice and carry accreditation.

For standard pets, check for signs where dogs are not allowed, usually indicated by a red sign with a picture of a dog and red diagonal line. Many UK beaches have dog restrictions between March and September. Supermarket chains and restaurants may prohibit animals on hygiene grounds. If in doubt, ask if you can bring your pet. Most people love animals, which may help you make friends on your travels.