PDSA releases travelling advice

As the warm weather holds out, the PDSA has issued advice for owners planning trips away with their dogs.

The new Bark and Ride code is based on Five Rs - routine, restrain, relax, refuel and responsibility.

The charity has advised owners on how to get used to a car and ensure journeys are linked with fun, and that pets are properly restrained with a harness or carrier.

PDSA senior vet Elaine Pendlebury said: "Having a pet on the loose in the car is a recipe for disaster. I have lost count of the amount of times I have seen dogs sat up front with their owners or hanging their head out of the car window.

"I’ve even seen a driver with a cat draped round their neck!  While this might seem like a bit of fun, the consequences for drivers, pedestrians and the pets could be fatal if there’s an accident."

Tips also cover how to get pets to relax, ensuring they have plenty of water and supplies and being aware of the temperature inside the car.

The new holidays guide is available for download from the PDSA's website.

Images courtesy of the PDSA.