Travelling with Dogs in Cars
With the holidays coming up, you might be planning to take your dog along for a trip. Dogs are loyal companions who love adventures with their families, but travelling with dogs in cars can sometimes be stressful. With a little preparation, attention to safety, and consideration for everyone’s comfort, including your dog, you can make the journey safe and enjoyable.
Do Dogs have to be Restrained in a Car?
In Victoria, restraining your dog in a car isn’t a legal requirement. However, a restrained dog is much easier to manage, and it keeps everyone safer if you need to brake suddenly. Using a dog seatbelt or harness also reduces distractions while driving, giving you peace of mind.
You’ll also find that you’re less distracted when your dog is safely confined. In some cars, the back boot with a grid separating your dog from passengers works well, especially if your dog loves to jump around or might try to leap out of an open window or door.
Jumpy dogs can accidentally hurt passengers or make your car feel unstable, especially with larger dogs. Victorian rules require that drivers maintain proper control at all times and that your dog does not obstruct your view. Using a seatbelt harness restrains your dog to a seated position. Most harnesses attach to an existing seatbelt clip, making them easy to use, and your dog will quickly get used to it. The harness also distributes pressure evenly across the chest, keeping your dog safer.
Do Dogs have to be Tied in Ute’s?
Transporting dogs in open vehicles can be risky. Make sure you restrain your dog in the back of your ute or truck, either with a lead or a secure cage, giving them room to move comfortably. Adding rubber matting can reduce slipping and make the ride more comfortable. Failing to secure your dog will result in fines, although working dogs and assistance dogs may be exempt in some cases.
Can Your Dog Sit in the Front Seat?
While your dog can technically sit in the front seat, it’s not a good idea. Dogs need to be restrained and away from distracting you while driving. Airbags can seriously injure your dog in an accident, so the safest place for your dog is in the back seat, securely harnessed.
Leaving Dogs in Cars
Even on cloudy days, cars can heat up quickly. Leaving your dog in a parked car can cause overheating, dehydration, or illness within minutes. Always carry water and take regular breaks on longer trips to let your dog stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Inadequate ventilation can also lead to fines.
Vaccinations for Travelling Inter-State
If you’re travelling interstate with your dog, check vaccination requirements ahead of time. For example, Tasmania requires all dogs to have a certificate showing they’ve been treated for hydatid tapeworm. Preparing in advance keeps your dog healthy and avoids travel issues.
Book an appointment with our clinic to check if your dog requires a vaccination.
Travelling with a Puppy under 12 Weeks Old
If your puppy is under 12 weeks old, avoid taking them on trips where they might contact other dogs until they’re fully vaccinated. This helps prevent illness and keeps your puppy safe during the holiday.
Caring for your Dog
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act ensures dogs are treated with care and respect. You can support this by restraining your dog in cars or utes, giving them time to get used to the vehicle, and taking regular breaks for stretching, toileting, and hydration.
Maintaining a calm and well-prepared driving environment helps protect your dog’s wellbeing and supports safer travel for everyone in the vehicle. By following recommended restraint practices, monitoring temperature, and planning ahead, you can ensure that every journey is not only safe but also a positive experience for your pet.
For tailored advice on travelling safely with your dog, the friendly team at Berwick Village Vets is here to help. Contact us on 9707 3855 or book an appointment through our booking tool.