Police roadblock nabs dog violation

It’s that time of year again when the police Integrated Road Safety Unit is looking for those drivers who are over the legal limit. But that’s not all they are after, as I experienced last week.

I was not pulled over for having too many rum and eggnogs. I sat there for 10 minutes — while many drove by assuming I was a drunk driver — waiting for my $109 ticket. This was for violation No. 195: “When control of the driver over the driving mechanism of the vehicle is obstructed.”

In other words, for having a dog unrestrained in the car.

Funnily (or not), while I was waiting for my ticket, I saw a car going the other way being stopped by another police officer, who petted the two dogs who were sitting on the driver’s lap. The driver then happily drove away without any reprimand.

In speaking with the head of the unit, I came to understand that it has no specific protocol on dealing with this issue. It is in the hands of each police officer as to how they want to implement ticketing.

So definitely do not drink and drive. But to my fellow dog owners, here is fair warning not to drive with your dog unrestrained in your vehicle. You will likely get a ticket, depending on the mood of the officer, or perhaps the breed of your dog, or what style of hat you are wearing.

Merry Christmas and drive safely! Patricia Macdonald Salt Spring Island