Pet owners who have noticed their beloved cat or dog has gone missing are likely to hop in the car straight away to search for them.
However, it is important they grab their harness or car seat before doing so, in order to avoid a hefty fine should they find them.
If their four-legged friend has an updated microchip, it shouldn’t take too long to locate them. Whoever finds them simply has to scan the microchip, and the owner will be alerted with the contact details of that person.
It is likely the owner will then have to drive to pick them up, but it is essential to still secure the pet properly in the vehicle, no matter how relieved they are.
Failure to do so could see owners getting into trouble as they would be breaking the Highway Code.
In fact, they could face nine points on their driving licence or a fine of up to £5,000.
It stipulates that dogs and other animals should be “suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly”.
Animals can be put in a cage or carrier, or wear a dog guard or a belt harness, so they are properly secured in the moving vehicle.
Of course, once they are home safely, you can then give them a great big cuddle, relieved in the knowledge that they are safe and you have not broken any laws trying to get them home in one piece.
Pets that are not microchipped will have a harder time being reunited with their owner, as the person who finds them is unlikely to know who to contact.
