3,700 pets injured in road accidents each year
It is recommended that dogs and their owners wear high-visibility clothes.
PDSA is raising awareness of the dangers traffic poses to pets as Road Safety Week (17 November- 23 November) continues.
The charity reports that it treats around 3,700 pets each year that have been involved in road traffic accidents, which costs it over £1 million a year.
Although the charity advocates regular winter walks to keep pets exercised, it has warned of the dangers that dark and busy roads pose to pets and their owners. Pets which are seriously injured in traffic accidents frequently require specialist or intensive veterinary care.
PDSA veterinary nurse Gemma Renwick has shared advice for pet owners to keep safe when walking near roadsides.
If you are unable to walk your dog during daylight hours, she recommends that owners wear high-visibility clothing and equip their dog with an LED collar or high-visibility dog coat. As always, dogs should be microchipped and have a collar with accurate identification details.
Cats should also be wearing high-visibility collars, which must always be ‘quick release’. Ideally cats should only be let out in daylight hours, which can be encouraged by timing their mealtimes to take place just before it gets dark. This creates a schedule, so they always return before nightfall.
Dog walks should avoid busy roads where possible, but it is also possible to train them to be cautious near roads. When you reach a road, ask your pet to ‘sit’ and ‘wait’ before crossing a road. This should teach them to always wait when they reach a road.
During winter, keeping dogs on a short and strong lead instead of an extender lead gives the extra assurance that they will not run off – even if they are generally well-behaved.
Ms Renwick said: “Sticking to these tips will help keep your beloved pets safe from the dangers of roads and traffic – as well as avoiding any unexpected veterinary costs. Remember, a little preparation and training can go a long way in ensuring that your walks are safe and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.”
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Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
