With summer just around the corner, whether you’re planning a European adventure or a road trip closer to home, Chris Maxted, director of motorhome dog gate supplier Dog-G8, reveals how failing to meet key pet travel requirements.
Proper restraint in vehicles could not only derail your plans but also result in hefty fines, denied entry, or even legal penalties.
Rules for travelling outside of the UK
“When travelling to the EU or Northern Ireland with your dog, remember to meet all the requirements: microchipping, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel (waived if booster cover is continuous), and an animal health certificate. This certificate remains valid for four months of onward travel and re-entry into Great Britain.
“For visits to countries like Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland, or Norway, tapeworm treatment is a legal requirement. It must be administered between 24 hours and five days before arrival, with details documented in a pet passport or health certificate.
“Drivers heading abroad with pets should ensure they have an Animal Health Certificate, up-to-date rabies vaccinations, and microchipping for their pets. Failing to comply with pet travel requirements can result in significant issues, such as your pet being denied entry, facing quarantine, or being returned to the UK.”
Tips on the road
“Travelling safely with pets requires preparation. Acclimatising pets to the car before their first long journey, bringing familiar items like a favourite blanket or toy, and making regular stops for breaks can help reduce stress on your trip.
“Using the right equipment, such as harnesses, crates, or dog guards, prevents pets from moving freely in the car, reducing the risk of distraction and injury. Pets should also never be allowed to stick their heads out of the window as gravel and debris can harm them, and distract other drivers.
“Plan regular stops every two hours to give your dog time to stretch, relieve itself, and burn off energy. Smooth driving is also important, avoid sharp turns, sudden braking, or erratic accelerations can prevent anxiety and injury, even for restrained pets.”
Legalities and consequences for drivers in the UK
Unrestricted dogs – £5,000 fine
“Rule 57 of The Highway Code clearly states that dogs must be suitably restrained in vehicles to prevent distractions and reduce the risk of injury during sudden stops. Relying on a passenger to hold a dog is also not considered a safe restraint, as the dog could still break free, distract the driver, and increase the risk of an accident.
“Failing to properly restrain your dog can lead to significant legal consequences, including fines of up to £5,000, penalty points on your license, or even a driving ban with compulsory re-testing.”
In an accident – £1,000 fine and further penalties
“A dog clambering over a driver or obstructing the pedals could result in serious legal consequences. Drivers could face charges like ‘driving without proper control,’ leading to a £1,000 fine and three points on their license. More severe cases, such as careless driving, can attract penalties ranging from three to nine penalty points, an unlimited fine, or even disqualification.
Maxted of Dog-G8, also commented “If an accident caused by distraction results in a fatality, the driver could be charged with causing death by careless driving, facing a driving ban, an unlimited fine, or up to five years in prison. Unrestrained pets can also void car insurance policies.”