Car harnesses for dogs get the vote

A poll by breakdown cover firm, GEM Motoring Assist reveals that more than 60 per cent of UK drivers believe it should be compulsory to restrain dogs in cars when driving.

The company, which also has a road safety arm, carried out the poll to find out driver's views on dogs wearing seat belts/harnesses in cars, after the issue became a hot topic over the summer.

Former Eastenders actor Todd Carty appeared on TV campaigning for a new law to be introduced to make dog seatbelts compulsory after he had a near tragic accident with his Labrador and the new poll reveals he is not alone.

David Williams, MBE, chief executive of GEM Motoring Assist said: "Not only are unnecessary accidents caused by unrestrained animals in the car but the consequences in a crash can be much more severe.

If a motorist is travelling at just 30 miles per hour, in the case of impact, an unrestrained average sized dog weighing approximately 50lbs would be projected forward with a force equal to a baby elephant".

GEM continues to support the cause for safety of pets in cars and fully backs the calls for a new seatbelt law. The potential danger to both pets and passengers should not to be ignored.

Williams continues: "Dog harnesses are readily available for dogs of all sizes and we advise motorists to always consider their dog as well as the rest of the family when it comes to car safety. This new law, if implemented, would be a great step towards reducing the number of accidents caused by animals and any law that helps make the roads a safer place is definitely a good thing."

For more details on animal safety visit www.motoringassist.com/Motoring-Advice