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Over a quarter 'never restrain dogs in the car'
dog in car
According to Rule 57 of the Highway Code, drivers must make sure dogs and other animals are suitably restrained to reduce the risk of distractions while driving.
Survey highlights injuries due to poor restraint
 
Over a quarter of dog owners say they never restrain their dog in the car, a new survey has revealed. Yet 22 per cent of vets surveyed had witnessed a canine fatality as a result of travelling in a car without proper restraint.

Nearly a fifth (18 per cent) of vets who took part in the survey had treated animals for injuries sustained as a result of poor restraint in the car, ranging from broken bones (39 per cent) to minor injuries such as bruising (33 per cent).

Direct Line Pet Insurance, who carried out the research, asked vets about the safest methods of restraint for dogs. Over half (53 per cent) advocated a dog seat belt and harness, 31 per cent a crate or cage and 13 per cent a barrier between the boot and back seat.

For smaller animals, vets recommended a carrier (67 per cent) or secure basket (31 per cent).

Vets reported seeing a number of dangerous methods being used by owners to restrain animals, including passengers holding animals on their laps, putting them in a cardboard box, letting them roam free in the vehicle or even putting a chain or rope around the animal's neck.

According to Rule 57 of the Highway Code, drivers must make sure dogs and other animals are suitably restrained to reduce the risk of distractions while driving.

Prit Powar, Direct Line's head of pet insurance, commented: "Some owners trust their animals to roam free around the car.  However, even the most well behaved animal can become easily spooked or excited, which could distract you from the road, putting both you and your pet in danger.  It’s important to adhere to the Highway Code to make sure you, your passengers and your pet is safe."

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.