Dog Restraints

[Connemmara]

Is it the law to have your dog restrained in the car - ie would you be fined if he wasn't. I did buy one some years ago but it was complicated that I threw it out. Thanks for any replies

[Prudie]

I don't think it's the law but I always used to buckle my boxer up. They can be flung forward more easily than a child on sudden braking. I'd never forgive myself.

[Connemmara]

thanks Prudie - it is just the sister who told me today that next month there is going to be a law regarding this - she is a bit of story teller.

[Prudie]

Well I certainly haven't heard of it Conne. Just had a quick look on Dogs Trust website and I assume that's pretty up-to-date
"There is currently no law that stipulates that a dog must be restrained whilst travelling in a vehicle. The Highway Code does offer advice on best practice."

[rockyracoon]

Family in Ireland (south) have told us that this is the case, all dogs need to be restained in a car, though I don't know of any UK law.

[jodal]

I don`t think so, when we take our little dog out One of us always nurses him, but like you we have bought restraints for the car, but cannot get on with them, I think as long as the dog is not dangerous for the driver, it is okay.

[woofgang]

Its not the law, but anybody who puts their dog (and themselves and their passengers) at risk by having the dog loose in the car is an idiot in my opinion.
also if the dog decided for whatever reason to climb on the driver (wasp sting, saw a cat, anything) and there was an accident, then the driver would deffo be at fault.

[lankeela]

A local pet shop put a notice in their window telling people that this was going to become law, and they sold no end of car harnesses and dog cages on the strength of it - but there was no truth in it. As mentioned above, the driver is responsible if a dog causes an accident. The best thing is to have the dog either in a cage (which should be secured as they can cause serious injury if they are flung about in an accident) or use a car harness if they are not behind a dog guard.

[pastafreak]

Conne is in Ireland...so maybe it is true for her.

[lankeela]

"When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."

[Connemmara]

I think Pet world have a universal harness that seems simple to look at - perhaps give that a go - not that my wee dog just sits in the back. But my sister was telling me she heard on the radio that some wee dog just like a good dog sitting peacefully in the back got like "spooked" by something and jumped under the pedals while the driver was driving so that has made me cautious.

[jules77]

I have a tail gate fitted, but also use these.

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