Pets: Ensure your dog is sitting comfortably on its travels

WITH another bank holiday upon us, thousands of people are taking to the roads with their dogs on board to enjoy a day out or a short holiday.

Veterinary charity PDSA is encouraging dog owners to follow its "Bark and Ride" code to ensure that all four-legged passengers have a smooth journey when travelling in the car.

The code is based on five principles – routine, restrain, relax, refuel and responsibility.

The charity encourages dog owners to familiarise their pet with the car from an early age to prevent travel from becoming a stressful experience, and to help the dog get into a good travel routine.

In fact, owners should let their pet safely explore the car with the engine turned off for around a week before starting with short journeys using proper safety restraints, such as special dog seatbelts. Dogs should be rewarded with praise or a healthy treat when they are calm and relaxed.

They must always be secured using a car safety harness, or a pet carrier for very small dogs. At 30mph, the charity states that a 50lb (22.5kg) Border Collie would be thrown forward with a force equivalent to a polar bear.

PDSA senior veterinary surgeon Sean Wensley says: "Having an unrestrained dog loose in the car can be extremely dangerous. While it might seem harmless to allow your pet to roam freely while you drive, the consequences for drivers, pedestrians and your pet could be fatal if there's an accident."

The PDSA also advises people travelling in the car to stay relaxed, which in turn helps the dog to remain calm.

Packing a dog's favourite blanket and toys can also help him or her to feel at ease.

It is equally important to refuel by making sure plenty of fresh water is taken on the journey to keep your pet happy and well hydrated. Regular stops should be made to provide your dog with water in a safe place away from the traffic, and to allow your pet to stretch its legs and go to the toilet. The PDSA points out that it is not advisable to feed your dog just before setting off, or while travelling, because it could make him or her feel sick.

Above all, the charity underlines that dog owners are responsible for their pet's health and welfare. A watchful eye should be kept on the temperature of the vehicle – if you feel hot, your dog will be even hotter.

Mr Wensley adds: "One of the most important things for owners to remember is never to leave their pets in a car in warm weather, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside can soar very quickly and could result in heatstroke, which can prove fatal."

Dog owners should also be aware that excessive yawning and salivating are initial signs of travel sickness, which around one in every six dogs suffers from.

Owners should seek advice from their vet if travel sickness becomes a regular problem for their dog. Vets can advise on appropriate treatment, which often includes behavioural therapy and medication.