Leading dog accessory manufacturer, EzyDog, is urging pet owners to check the set-up of their vehicles to ensure that they are as dog safe as possible and avoid a costly fine for drivers. 

With startling statistics about dogs in vehicles, global market leader in the pet accessory industry, EzyDog, is encouraging drivers to consider how their dog is restrained in their vehicle. Research from Direct Line shows that more than a quarter (28%) of dog owners never restrain their dogs in the car and over a fifth (22%) of vets say dogs have died as a result of a road crash, when travelling inside the vehicle*.

Moreover, Highway Code Rule 57 states: “When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.” If this is not abided by, it may result in a £5,000 fine for careless driving.

There are a host of solutions for travelling with a dog and EzyDog has meticulously designed its dog travel accessories, ensuring journeys are safer and easier, making driving with a dog a breeze. 

The 'CLICK' Dog Car Restraint, which is effectively a seat belt for dogs, attaches to a dog’s harness and then the buckle can click into the seat belt socket. Another option is the Seat Belt Restraint, which attaches to the D-Ring of a dog's harness to keep them secure whilst travelling in a vehicle and is fed through the seatbelt of a car to keep them in place, as well as to keep them safe. 

The Click ISOFIX Dog Seat Belt from EzyDog is an adjustable dog car restraint that clicks into the ISOFIX connection port of a car, the same connection that is used for attaching child restraints. Drivers can simply attach one end to the dog's harness and put the clip to the ISOFIX socket.

To give a dog the luxury treatment, there is the Drive™ Booster Seat, which is a comfortable car seat that provides adjustable elevation, to allow dogs a clear view of the road ahead, reducing their motion sickness.

Guy Ellis, Director for EzyDog UK, said: “Seeing the statistics from Direct Line about the number of dogs that unfortunately pass away due to a car crash is frightening, so we should be focusing on how we keep our dogs safe at all times, which is why we’re focusing on highlighting this car safety issue in the hopes of reducing this horrible statistic.

“While we specialise in the standard accessories for dogs, the leads, harnesses and collars etc, travelling accessories are also a huge sector for our business. There are many dog owners out there that are not aware of the Highway Code rules about restraining their dog, which may cost them thousands of pounds, but for as little as £7.50 from our range, they can ensure their dog stays safe while driving and without the risk of a fine.”