Traveling with pets without adequate safety measures is too high a risk.
70% of drivers in Spain are unaware of the current regulations for transporting pets, according to a study by RACE and Babyauto.
As every year, road trips increase in number, coinciding with the arrival of summer and the long-awaited holidays. It is estimated that there are more than 11 million pets in Spain, 85% of which are dogs and cats, and a significant proportion travel with their owners or families during leisure and recreational trips during the summer months.
Despite the marked trend towards growth in households with pets throughout the State, study by the RACE Foundation and Babyauto A study conducted on a sample of 1,200 drivers reveals a very worrying fact: more than 70% of pet owners claim to be completely or largely unaware of the current regulations regarding transporting pets in vehicles. The study highlights an even more worrying reality, as 4% of those surveyed state they drive their vehicle without an adequate restraint or safety system for their pet.
In the event of an accident or impact at 50 km/h (31 mph), the weight of a pet can increase by up to 30 times, becoming a major danger to the pet itself and the other occupants of the vehicle. Current regulations, established by the General Traffic Regulations, require owners or guardians of pets to drive "while maintaining full control of the vehicle, avoiding interference with passengers and objects, including animals." This regulation creates some confusion among drivers because there is no clear regulation certifying the appropriate restraint systems for transporting pets.
The study indicates that three out of four drivers travel with pets using a deficient or inadequate restraint system, either due to the type of restraint system or its location within the vehicle. Furthermore, 61% of those surveyed report using a properly approved system, although there are currently no specific regulations governing the appropriate restraint system for transporting pets.
The study's authors conclude that it is necessary to require the relevant authorities to implement the necessary modifications to guarantee animal welfare and the safety of drivers and other vehicle occupants. The use of inadequate systems, they emphasize, can be a risk factor for accidents during the busiest travel months of the year.
- Fastening and anchoring<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Transport the animal in a secure restraint or anchor system, which in the case of dogs involves specific harnesses connected to the seat belt.</span></p>
- Light food<p>Avoid having pets eat large meals before getting in the car as much as possible to minimize the risk of motion sickness and vomiting.</p>
- Schedule your trips<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Avoid driving long distances during the central hours of the day.</span></p>
- Always under control<p>Keep the animal on a leash before opening the vehicle door.</p>
- Stops to rest and stretch your legs<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Take appropriate breaks every two hours to hydrate and walk around.</span></p>
- Temperature and refrigeration<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Properly cool the vehicle, especially on the hottest days of the year.</span></p>