A top vet surgeon has revealed that over half of people in the West Midlands have travelled in a car with their dog unsecured in the last six months.

54 per cent of dog owners in the region do not restrain their pets while driving.

Additionally, 11 per cent of them travel with their dogs sitting on their lap, which is an enormous safety risk for both the driver and the pet.

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This concern was brought up in a recent conversation on BBC Radio H&W between Adam Hassell and vet surgeon Dr Scott Miller BVSc.

Highlighting the risk, the TV vet said: "It’s estimated that over 240,000 pets are injured in car accidents every year.

"You don’t want to imagine the injuries I see caused by dogs not being securely fastened in cars.

"Whiplash injuries, torn nails, dislodged teeth and fractures can occur when your pet is flung around the car.

"I have witnessed too many of these injuries resulting in the pet dying."

The consequences for drivers failing to restrain their pets can also have legal implications, with fines being imposed on those neglecting this important safety measure.

However, the survey conducted by pet protection company Tavo found that only one in five dog owners have a full understanding of the rules laid out in the Highway Code.

The research has revealed that 15 per cent of dog owners in the region do not understand the rules at all, possibly putting their pets in danger.

The company is trying to address the safety issue by providing dog owners with a reliable solution, manufactures crash-tested car seat carriers for pets, similar to child car seats.

Dr Scott backs Tavo's work, saying: "The Tavo Maeve system has passed the highest human standard crash testing and provides the best standard of pet safety, allowing pets, particularly dogs and cats, to travel in comfort and style.

"Tavo Maeve is an essential piece of kit for any pet owner who wants peace of mind when travelling with their pet in the car.”

The product is available in Halfords stores across the UK.