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Unsecured pets in moving cars “a real danger”
Shih tzu in car
Four per cent of owners said they had had an accident or a near miss as a result of pets being loose in the car.
Over a quarter of owners do not restrain pets while driving

More than a quarter of dog owners do not restrain their pets in moving vehicles, according to new research by the RAC.

The Highway Code states that dogs and other animals must be appropriately restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or people if the car stops suddenly.

Despite this, a survey of motorists revealed 28 per cent of people would let their dog move freely, even in a car full of luggage.

An RAC spokesperson said unsecured pets in moving vehicles present “a real danger”, both to the pet, the driver and passengers if the car stops suddenly or in the event of an accident.

In fact, 4 per cent of those who took part in the survey reported they had had an accident or a near miss due to cats or dogs being loose in the car.

A significant 80 per cent of owners travel with their dog. Of these, 21 per cent said they leave them loose on car seats and 6 per cent let them travel in passenger footwells.

A third of owners who do restrain their pets restrict them to the boot, whereas less than a quarter (24 per cent) use a pet harness or seatbelt. Only 15 per cent use a cage or carrier to transport their dogs.

The spokesman said: “Our research suggests that a sizeable amount of people are prepared to take a risk and leave their dog unsecured, and, worryingly, that more than one in 10 (13 per cent) do not actually consider it to be a driving hazard.

“While pet owners may feel they know how their dog behaves in the car, nobody can predict what might happen round the next corner or how a dog would react in or after an accident. The best way to ensure the safety and security of everybody in a vehicle when travelling with a pet is to make sure it is properly restrained.”

Cat owners were more likely to be safety conscious in the car, with 92 per cent saying their pet was kept in a secure carrier while travelling. Almost all participants (96 per cent) said they would never allow their cat to be loose in a moving car.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.