Petowners are responsible for ensuring that they comply with regulations of UK AnimalWelfare, which can be found on the Defra website:  http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/welfare.

Thereare certain conditions under which pets should not travel.  Pets should not be transported if they areill or injured (unless it's deemed to be an insignificant condition), new-bornwith an unhealed navel, unable to feed by itself and not accompanied by themother, heavily pregnant or given birth within 48 hours. 

Ifyour pet is an older animal, it's a good idea to have pet insurance for travellingpurposes. 

Safety and security

Whilethe car is in motion, pets should be restrained in the back seat or the hatchof the car, ideally in an animal container. If the pet is sitting in the front seat during an accident it can beinjured by the airbag deploying or by hitting the windscreen. 

Unsecuredpets can also be a danger to the driver and passengers during an accident.  A traumatised animal can cause havoc in thetraffic or get in the way of emergency medical personnel. 

Comfort

Petcontainers should be of an appropriate size for your pet, and no part of theanimal should protrude from the container. They should be able to stand up, to turn around easily and to lie downcomfortably.  Let your pet get to knowthe container before it's placed in the car, put a treat into the container toentice them in but don't force them. 

Properventilation is vital during car journeys as pets can easily overheat.  Use a trellis type ventilator to seal off ahatchback.  Also ensure that your pet hasaccess to fresh water and feed during the journey, especially if it is of asignificant distance. 

Stopregularly to allow your pet the opportunity to stretch and ensure that itsbedding is comfortable and absorbent. 

Travel sickness

Ifyou're worried about travel sickness on a long journey, help your petacclimatise to travelling conditions by taking it on a few short journeys beforehand.  Try covering up the windows as travelsickness can be worse for your pet if it can see passing objects.  Some experts also advise limiting your pet?swater consumption and not feeding for three to four hours before the journeybegins. 

Considerpet insurance for long journeys,especially if you are taking your pet abroad with you, in which case overseastravel cover is recommended.  Keybenefits can include vet's fees and access to a vet helpline at all times.