Moving with pets · 6 min read

Top Tips for Transporting Your Pets in the Car

Rule 57 of the Highway Code requires animals to be suitably restrained in a vehicle. Beyond the law an unrestrained animal in a crash becomes a projectile so this is worth getting right.

Published 16 April 2025

Use the right restraint

A crash tested crate in the boot is the safest option for dogs followed by a purpose made harness clipped to the seatbelt. Cats rabbits and small animals should always travel in a secure carrier positioned in a footwell or strapped onto a seat.

Acclimatise before a long journey

If your animal rarely travels start with short trips in the week before the move. Feed treats in the carrier at home so it becomes a familiar place rather than a signal that something bad is happening.

Manage temperature and ventilation

Never leave a pet in a parked car even briefly in warm weather. Use window shades keep air circulating and carry water and a collapsible bowl.

Plan breaks and handle travel sickness

Stop every two hours for dogs to stretch and toilet. Feed a light meal three hours before departure rather than immediately before. If your animal is a consistently bad traveller ask your vet about medication well ahead of the date.

In short

Restrain properly acclimatise early keep the car cool and break the journey every couple of hours.

Planning a move?

Olympia Removals & Storage moves homes and businesses across the UK with fixed written pricing and fully insured crews.