DRIVING with your dog
HERE’S HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS AND HUMAN PASSENGERS SAFE WHEN TRAVELLING
Do you own a dog who loves car rides? Unlike cats or other pets, pups generally enjoy hitting the road with their human companions.
However, if you’re guilty of letting your pooch roam free in your car, be aware that in the case of an accident or sudden braking, your furry friend can turn into a missile and end up flying out of the car through the windscreen or hitting a passenger.
RULES & REGULATIONS
Each state in Australia has its own rules and regulations, so be sure to look up any laws of states you’re travelling through. As a general rule, pets should be kept away from the driver to avoid distraction and appropriately restrained to prevent them leaving the vehicle. The following rules are a general guide to keep everyone safe on the road:
● Drivers cannot drive with pets on their lap.
● Pets should be kept in an appropriate area of the vehicle – the rear seat of a passenger car, behind a cargo barrier in a wagon or SUV, or tethered or caged if on the back of a ute.
● Dogs cannot be kept in the boot of a sedan-like car.
● Pets must not be put under unreasonable or unnecessary stress or suffering.
● Failure to follow appropriate laws can result in loss of demerit points and a hefty fine. The penalties differ between states.
SAFETY MEASURES
While it’s not illegal in all states to leave your pup unrestrained, dog harnesses really come down to common sense. Not only do they stop your pup from causing a distraction, they also prevent pets from becoming airborne under sudden braking, or jumping out of a window and injuring themselves or causing traffic incidents. Harnesses work by securing your dog via a seatbelt attachment and should always be used in the rear seats. Hammock seat covers and front seat barriers are also an option to restrict your furry friend’s access to the front seats. If you prefer to keep your pup in the cargo area of your wagon or SUV, and not to keep them locked up in a travelling crate or container, then consider a cargo barrier.
KEEP THEM COMFY
Of course, it’s a given that any time you travel with pets you should ensure their road trip is as comfortable and carefree as possible. This means having water and food on hand, and discussing options with your vet to prevent or deal with motion sickness.
For more motoring content, visit whichcar.com.au