As most dog owners would tell you, dogs love going for a spin. But an over-excited dog can be dangerous.
Dogs NSW are asking dog owners to buckle up their dogs and secure them at all times during the holiday break.
Some dogs can become over-stimulated from the excitement of the drive and jump around the car, distracting the driver and potentially causing a crash.
Dr Peter Higgins, a veterinarian and spokesperson for Dogs NSW, urged owners to take precautionary steps to keep their dogs buckled up on holiday drives. “Dogs love watching the world go by out the window, but it pays t take a few precautions first,” Dr Higgins said.
“I recommend crates or special dog seat belts. They’re cheap, and could save a life. An unsecured dog is a four legged missile.”
In NSW, the RTA handbook states that “animals should be seated or housed in appropriate areas” and that “a driver must not drive with an animal in the driver’s lap”.
Dr Higgins said he had seen many dogs injured as a result of being unrestrained in a moving car. “It is totally the responsibility of the owner to make sure dogs aren’t injured in transit. I really hope this is taken into account this holiday season,” he said.
by Ehssan Veiszadeh
