As the weather warms up, we engage in increasing amounts of outdoor activities with our dogs. Some of the adventures require car travel, so it’s crucial that we know how to keep our pups and ourselves safe.
We see our dogs as family members but don’t always understand our legal responsibilities to animals. Understanding the laws around safe transportation is vital, which is why we’ve compiled this handy guide. Not only will we break down the regulations for each state, but we’ll also give you all the tips and tools you need to comply.
Whether taking a quick drive to the park or a road trip to the beach, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the law with dogs in cars to ensure everybody has a great time.
Legal requirements for travelling with dogs in cars
We all love taking our dogs away with us, but did you know that incorrect transportation of animals can lead to unwanted consequences? Your pet’s safety is jeopardised, and you could face thousands of dollars in fines and even jail time.
Here is a brief rundown of the law regarding dogs in cars across Australia to ensure you stay safe—and legal—with your pup.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Vehicle restraint: ACT prioritises safety, so all dogs must be securely restrained to avoid jumps and falls. If you fail to correctly restrain your pup, you could face a $3,200 fine
No distractions: Similar to most other states, you cannot drive with a dog on your lap or in a position that blocks your view. If your dog creates an obstruction, it may result in fines of up to $3,200
New South Wales (NSW)
Risk of injury: If your dog is hurt because you didn’t secure them properly, you could face a fine of up to $27,500
Travelling in the back: Dogs cannot roam freely in the back of utes and open vehicles. The penalty is a fine of $5,500 or up to six months in jail
Dog Distraction: Driving with a dog on your lap is considered a distraction, and you could face a fine of up to $2,200
Northern Territory (NT)
Unrestrained dogs: While the laws are slightly more relaxed in the NT, you cannot let a dog distract you or block your view. You can technically drive with an unrestrained dog, but if they cause any distraction, you could face $3,240 or even six months in jail.
Queensland (QLD)
Unrestrained load: No Queensland law directly states that you must restrain dogs. However, dogs that are not properly secured can be considered as “unrestrained loads.” These carry a fine of $2,875
Ute travel: The Law states that dogs travelling in utes must be restrained for safety.
When tethering your dog, please refrain from using choker chains, as they are dangerous and can injure your pup.
Lap dogs: Dogs cannot ride on your lap as they create a distraction. If you do this, you can be fined up to $2,875
South Australia (SA)
Dog obstructions: Placing a dog on your lap or in any position that blocks your view is considered an obstruction and could land you a fine of $205
Ute restraints: You must adequately restrain any dogs travelling in utes. Failure to do so can result in fines of up to $1,250
Tasmania (TAS)
Safety restraints: Tasmania law emphasises control. Your dog must be secured appropriately against jumps and falls, or you could face a $905 fine.
Driver Control: If you place your dog in a distracting position (on your lap, blocking your view etc) you could face a fine of up to $1,810
Victoria (VIC)
Travelling in the boot: It is illegal to transport your dog in the boot. If you do so, you could face a fine of up to $2,726. There are some exceptions, such as SUVs or wagons, but it is worth checking before you travel.
Hot dog: Heat stroke can occur rapidly on summer days. If the temperature is 28°C and above, you cannot leave a dog in a car for more than 10 minutes. If you do, the fine could be up to $3,635
Driver distraction: You cannot carry your dog on your lap while driving because it means you are not in complete control. If you do, you could face a fine of $909
Western Australia (WA)
Harmful transportation: WA takes dog safety very seriously. If you transport your dog in an unsafe way, you face fines of up to $50,000 or up to five years in jail.
Lap hazard: If you allow your dog to ride on your lap, you can expect a $100 fine. This is because you cannot maintain full control if you have your pup in the driver’s seat.
Motorcycle rules: If you want to take your dog for a motorcycle ride, you will need to secure it on the back. Dogs cannot ride between the handlebars and the driver or in any position that interferes with the driver’s ability to control the bike.
If you are taking a dog on a motorcycle, we highly recommend purchasing a properly secured carrier to keep them safe.
The importance of complying with the law
While respecting the law is important, you’ll also want to take some measures for safety’s sake. As a responsible pet parent, consider the following factors.
Ute travel. There are numerous hazards for dogs travelling in the back of utes. These include jumps, falls, being struck by oncoming vehicles or being dragged alongside moving vehicles.
For these reasons, it is paramount that you secure your pup while keeping them safe. The tether should allow your dog to move but not enough to touch the sides of the ute.
Hot Surfaces. The back of utes and trucks can be scorching in the summer sun. While it may be easy to overlook, your dog is susceptible to burnt paws and heatstroke. Always check the temperature of surfaces. Ideally, provide a non-metallic spot for your dog to stand on (you could use a blanket to cover hot metal, for example). And, where possible, transport them inside the cooler cabin.
Injury risk. Dogs that aren’t adequately secured are a risk to themselves and others in the event of a crash. A sudden stop could launch them straight into the windshield or other passengers. Using a dog carrier, seat belt, or harness helps protect them and their human occupants from serious injuries.
Window exposure. It may look cute when dogs hang their heads out of the window, but it can create a hazard. Dust, debris, and insects can damage their eyes. Plus, if they stick their heads out too far, they could be struck by an oncoming vehicle.
Hot dog. You’d be surprised at just how quickly a parked car can heat up to a dangerous level.
This is a serious risk as dogs are more sensitive to heat than humans. Even with the windows cracked, your dog can experience heat stroke in a very short amount of time. If you have to park for more than 5-10 minutes, take your dog with you or leave them at home where they are cool and safe.
Stress, anxiety, and escapes. Not all dogs enjoy car travel, which can cause them to behave unpredictably. Purchasing a car seat for you dog not only ensures their safety – it could also help them to relax and feel safe.
Safety benefits of using a dog car bed
There are a multitude of dog car seatbelts and car seats, so how do you choose which is best? You look for a product that can keep your pet safe and comfortable, especially for long drives. For these reasons, more and more pet parents are turning to dog car beds; here’s why.
Car dog beds secure your pet to prevent them from moving around or distracting the driver. Many come with built-in harnesses or loops that attach to your car’s seat belt system. This feature limits your dog’s mobility and secures them in one place in the event of an accident.
How dog car beds reduce anxiety for pets
Along with safety features, dog car beds offer a cosy place for your pup to curl up. This creates a comforting environment that can help reduce travel-related anxiety. Many beds have raised edges to create an enclosed environment that makes your pup feel safe on the road.
The versatility of a dog car bed as a portable bed when travelling:
The beauty of a dog car bed is that it can double as a travel bed when you are away from home. Not only is it a convenient option, but it also means that your pup always has a familiar spot to call their own when away from home.
Trusted Aussie brand, SASH Beds, pride themselves on keeping pets safe and secure. They’ve even had a customer report back this feedback about their car bed that protected their pup in a car accident:
“…My pup and I were hit by a bus yesterday in the car… He walked out totally fine – was strapped into one of your car seats. Really appreciate you”
This highlights the importance of restraining your pets to keep them safe during travels.
Choosing the right dog car bed
You’ll want to look for the following features when choosing the right dog car bed.
Safety harness. Without a harness, your dog is more susceptible to injuries if you have to stop suddenly. Plus, your focus should be on driving, not worrying about where your pet is. If you know your dog is safely secured, you are free to focus on the road.
Comfort. Dog car beds aren’t solely for safety, they can also provide important comfort for your pup. Choose a weighted and breathable bed to provide physical and mental comfort.
Portability. Choosing a portable bed is beneficial for you and your dog. It offers a practical solution for a travel bed while providing a space for your pup to feel comfortable when away from home.
Size. Choosing the right size is essential for safety and wellbeing.
The SASH dog car bed offers adjustable buckles and a non-skid base for optimal safety. The weighted design helps your pup to relax, while generous padding protects them from bumps in the road. In addition, the breathable design prevents heat-trapping, making the bed suitable for every season.
The product is suitable for use in front or back seats and comes in various sizes to get the right fit for your dog. Plus, the two-in-one design offers a portable bed that is perfect for road trips.
Your dog will love the familiarity of a safe space, and you will love the ease of the product. Not only does the car bed keep your pet safe, but it also protects your car from scratches, dirt, and fur.
Understanding the law regarding dogs in cars isn’t just a legal responsibility; it is a crucial factor in creating a safe environment for your dog. By purchasing a bed like the SASH 2-in-1, your dog can enjoy a safe and comfortable trip, leaving you stress-free to enjoy your holiday.
