Cash point

Almost two-thirds of UK motorists are unaware driving with an unrestrained pet risks fines of up to £2,500.

It can also invalidate insurance so could end up costing a lot more in the event of an accident.

Research from Confused.com reveals a third of pet-owning motorists don’t buckle up their four-legged travel companions when on the road.

They risk fines of up to £1,000 for driving without proper control of the car, or could get slapped with up to £2,500 for driving without due care and attention.

Penalties don’t stop there because drivers convicted of these offences can receive up to nine points on their licence and could potentially suffer a driving ban.

The Highway Code states that motorists must suitably restrain all animals while driving.

They should use a specialist seatbelt, secure cage or carrier, or fit a boot guard to separate animals from other passengers.

Doing this improves the safety of animals, the driver, passengers and other road users.