Tips for travelling with pets

1. Safety is paramount

Not only is it illegal for pets to sit on drivers' laps, it also isn't safe, for you or your pet. It's important to keep your furry friend safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. There are a variety of wire mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available. Whatever you choose, make sure it's large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in.

2.What does the law say about pets in cars?

In all states across Australia, it is an offence to drive with your pet on your lap and if on a motorbike, your pet mustn't ride between the handlebars and the rider. Also, fines can exceed $400 and you can lose three points if caught and if an animal is injured as a result of being unrestrained, the fines and penalties increase dramatically under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, including jail time.

3. Don't leave your pet unattended in the car

Did you know that 1 out of 5 NRMA callouts in Winter are for pets locked in cars? Sadly, unattended pets die in locked cars each and every year. According to the RSPCA, you can lose your best mate in just six minutes, even if your windows are down or your car is in the shade. This is because, aside from through their foot pads, dogs don't sweat so they are highly susceptible to heatstroke. Fortunately, it's easy to prevent your pet experiencing heatstroke by ensuring you never leave them in a car unattended.

4. Head to the vet

Get your pet micro-chipped and/or update your contact details at your local vet before you take off. It's important to make sure your microchip register is recognised nationally if travelling interstate. While you're there, ensure your pet is up-to-date with all of its vaccinations and get the veterinarian to check that they're healthy enough to travel.

5. Get them used to the car

A car is a weird place for any pet and can often be related to less-than-pleasant things like motion sickness, noise, or even that vet visit at the end of it. To get your furry friend used to car travel, it's best to take them on a few short trips first - gradually lengthening the time spent in the car. Be sure to pack a couple of blankets and even your pets favourite toy - the key is to make sure they're comfortable at all times. Relieving your pets stress about travelling in your car can also help with overcoming any motion sickness they may have.

6. Pack a travel bag

Just like you'd prepare to keep a child entertained on a long trip, you should pack a bag of necessities that your pet might need during the drive. The most important thing is to have plenty of food and water for your pet, as well as some treats to keep them happy throughout your journey. You'll want to take them out to stretch their legs at rest stops so remember to bring some doggy bags, and a lead.

7. Keep their head inside the vehicle

Despite the seeming biological imperative of every pet that's ever ridden in a car to stick its head out the window, it's actually a harmful habit. With your pet's head out the window, its eyes are exposed to dust, dirt, rocks and anything else that gets kicked up by your car and others on the road. A head stuck out of the window can easily lead to your pet falling out the window if not secured and you encounter bumpy terrain or some other jarring road obstruction. A spill can cause broken bones, internal injuries and worse if other cars can't brake in time to avoid hitting your pet. In saying that, it's ideal to have the window down slightly - that way fresh air can make its way through and circulate throughout the vehicle.

8. Check your NRMA Membership

If you travel often with your furry friend, make sure you have the Pet Plus add onto your NRMA Membership.

• In the event of a breakdown and travelling with your cat or dog, we will arrange to have your pet safely transported to the destination of your choice when travelling locally or interstate.
• Appropriate accommodation in a kennel or boarding home while your vehicle is being repaired, when travelling interstate.
• Access to a national network of vets and pet service providers, if required.