AFTER we reported on the heartbreaking story of a young puppy being run over by a taxi driver, many readers queried what the police could do. 

Sixteen-year-old Lauredn Haddock said she watched her beloved pet puppy get run over by a taxi driver who never stopped to help.

Lauren, from Eccleston, was giving her puppy Bob a walk before bed on Saturday on the fields near her home when the tiny dog got loose of his harness.

The King Charles Cavalier and Beagle cross ran on to Bleak Hill Road before being hit by a taxi.

Bob's family said they did not blame the driver but were upset he had left the scene leaving Lauren in tears holding the bleeding dog on the side of the road.

What happens if my dog has been run over by a car?

In the UK, dog owners are held responsible if their pet is run over by a car.

The owner is also responsible for any veterinary costs and, potentially, for the cost of repairs to the vehicle involved.

I've hit a dog with my car. Do I need to report it?

Dogs, as well as goats, horses, cattle, ass, mules, sheep and pigs, fall within the remit of the Road Traffic Act.

Therefore, motorists are required by law to report accidents involving dogs to the police.

Once you’ve reported it to the police, your legal duty is done.

If the animal is injured and you wish to help further you can contact the RSPCA’s emergency service on 0300 1234 999 for advice. 

Any other deceased animal, whether you’ve hit it or not can be reported to the council. 

The law adds: "The driver of the car must stop and, if required to do so by any person having reasonable grounds for so requiring, give his name and address and also the name and address of the owner and the identification marks of the vehicle.

"If for any reason the driver of the car does not give his name and address, he must report the accident.

"A person who fails to comply is guilty of an offence."

READ > Heartbroken girl says beloved puppy was hit by taxi driver – who then just drove off

What should a driver do after they have hit a dog?

The RAC has the following advice:

  • Make sure the dog is comfortable
  • Keep the injured dog warm by wrapping them in a blanket, keeping their nose and mouth exposed.
  • If your dog is having trouble breathing, maintain an open airway by removing the collar, open the mouth and check for any obstructions. 
  • The dog is likely to be scared and in pain. 
  • He may scratch or bite so handle him with care. 

Dogs in pain or shock can bite especially when frightened so an emergency muzzle can be made with some bandage or tape to loop over the dog’s nose before transporting or handling. 

But only ever use a muzzle if the animal is not having breathing difficulties.

What should they do next?

The most common injuries following road traffic accidents are cuts, scrapes, and broken bones.

You should cover any wounds with a clean cloth and apply gentle pressure to stop any bleeding.

If you think there may be broken bones, keep the dog as still as possible and place them on a hard move-able surface such as a piece of wooden board covered with a blanket or the parcel shelf from your car.

Never give the dog any medication or food or drink.