We’ve all seen it – dogs with their heads hanging out the window, paws on the dashboard or even curled up on their owner’s lap while driving. It might look cute, but unrestrained pets in cars are a serious safety risk.
A sudden stop, sharp turn or even a minor accident can injure your pet, or worse. An unrestrained pet can also be a distraction, increasing the chances of a crash. And if that’s not reason enough, failing to secure your pet properly could land you with a hefty fine.
The good news? Keeping your furry friend safe doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple precautions will give you peace of mind and make car trips safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
The risks of unrestrained pets
The RSPCA estimates that 500 dogs are either injured or killed each year in Australia as a result of jumping from a moving car. But the dangers don’t stop there.
A pet moving freely inside a car can be unpredictable – jumping onto the driver’s lap, nudging the gear stick or even blocking the pedals. If an accident happens, an unrestrained pet can be thrown forward with incredible force, putting both themselves and other passengers at risk.
A properly secured pet is a safer pet. Restraints like harnesses, crates or pet barriers help prevent injury and keep everyone in the car protected. The safest spot for your pet is always the back seat, away from airbags and potential impact zones.
How to travel safely with pets
So, how do you keep your pet secure in the car? Here are a few tried-and-tested options:
- Harnesses and seatbelts: a well-fitted harness that clips into a seatbelt is a simple and effective way to keep your dog secure.
- Crates or carriers: for smaller pets or longer trips, a sturdy crate or carrier that’s properly secured in the car can provide added comfort and safety. When transporting a dog on the back of a ute, a secured crate is the safest option.
- Cargo barriers: if you drive a station wagon or four-wheel drive, a cargo barrier can keep your pet safely confined to the back of the car.
Whatever option you choose, make sure it’s properly fitted, comfortable and secure. Some pets may take time to adjust, but the extra effort is well worth it for their safety – and yours.
Legal requirements and fines
In New Zealand, the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018 state that if a dog left in a stationary vehicle shows any signs of heat stress, fines of up to $300 can be issued to the dog’s owner, the vehicle owner, and the person responsible for the dog.
Additionally, failing to properly secure a dog on the back of a ute can also result in a $300 fine for both the dog’s owner and the person in charge at the time.
Common travel mistakes and how to avoid them
Even the most well-intentioned pet owners can make mistakes when traveling with their pets. Here’s how to keep your furry friend safe on the road:
- No pets in the front seat. Even if your pet loves to ride shotgun, it’s simply not safe. Airbags can cause serious injury to pets in the front seat, so always keep them in the back.
- No heads out the window. Flying debris, sudden stops and sharp turns can all pose a risk.
- Don’t leave your pet loose in the car. Even a small bump or swerve can send an unrestrained pet flying. Buckle them up or opt for a crate or barrier.
- Take regular breaks. Pets need rest stops too. Plan regular breaks on long drives for water, toilet stops and a quick stretch.
The danger of heat stress
It only takes minutes for a parked car to become dangerously hot, even on a mild day. On a summer’s day, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise 30 to 40 degrees above the outside temperature.
Heat stress can quickly become life-threatening for pets, even with the windows cracked open. The safest option? Never leave your pet alone in a car. If you need to run errands, leave them at home or bring someone along who can stay with them outside the vehicle.
A responsible approach to pet travel
Keeping your pet safe in the car isn’t just about following the law, it’s about making sure they’re comfortable, happy and protected every time you hit the road.
With the right precautions, you can enjoy car trips together without worry. So next time you buckle up, make sure your pet is secure too – it’s a simple step that can make all the difference.
