Dog Care

Dog car safety

Car travel with a dog can be a trying ordeal for many pet owners, but with the right precautions, you can actually make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether it's a short trip to the park or a long car trip with your dog, using restraints like a dog safety car seat or harness, you can secure your dog and prevent distractions and injuries during sudden stops. Ensuring good ventilation, setting up a comfortable space, and taking regular breaks on longer journeys are also essential.
To learn how to transport a dog in a car safely, read on for expert tips and advice on dog car travel.

Understanding your dog: Insights from Dr. Elle Parker, Behaviour Veterinarian

Things to consider when taking a road trip with a dog and how to make them more comfortable.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car

Here are some practical tips and techniques to help secure your dog and make your journey safe and enjoyable.

Use a Harness and Dog Seat Belt

An effective way to ensure dog car safety is to use a harness and a specialised dog seat belt. These can be ideal for both small and large dogs, as they help keep them in place during the drive.
To get set up:
•    Thread the car seat belt through the loop on the dog seat belt and buckle it in.
•    Place your dog on the car seat and attach the clip to their harness.
•    Adjust the seat belt to ensure your dog is secure and comfortable.

Opt for a Carry Box

A carry box may be used for smaller dogs, and may help a dog that gets anxious in the car feel secure. Make sure the box is secure and won’t move while you are on the road. It is also important to ensure there is adequate ventilation so the dog doesn’t overheat in the carrier.

Secure Your Dog in a Crate

Using a crate is an excellent option for a road trip. It ensures that the dog is safe and comfortable during the journey, as long as the crate is large enough for the dog to stand and turn around.
To set up your crate for a car trip with your dog:
•    Choose a crate that fits your dog and car.
•    Place the crate in the back seat or the cargo area of your vehicle.
•    Make sure the crate is secure and won’t move while you are on the road.
•    Ensure there is adequate ventilation, particularly in warm weather.

Install a Dog Guard

If you have a wagon, station wagon, SUV or van, your dog may ride in the boot area. In this case a dog guard can be used.

When you want to install a dog guard:
•    Select a dog guard that fits your vehicle.
•    Install the guard behind the rear seats, ensuring it is securely bolted.
•    Follow the manufacturer's instructions to lock the guard in place.

Why is it Important to Keep My Dog Safe in the Car?

Taking measures to ensure dog car safety is for both your and your pet’s well-being. Unrestrained pets can pose serious risks during car travel, potentially leading to accidents and injuries.
Practising dog safety for car travel is not just about following rules but ensuring the well-being of your furry friend and everyone in the vehicle. By using proper restraints and making your dog comfortable, you can make car trips safe and enjoyable.

From a dog seat belt to a specialised dog car restraint system, keeping your pets safe is helpful to:

Prevent Accidents:

An unrestrained dog can become a distraction, increasing the likelihood of an accident for the driver. For example, in the event of a sudden stop or collision, an unrestrained dog can be thrown forward, causing injury to both the dog and passengers.

Using a dog seat belt or a dog car restraint system helps secure your dog in a car and minimises distractions, ensuring it stays safely in one place during the journey.

Protect Your Dog:

If your dog is in the front seat and an accident occurs, they could hit the dashboard or windshield. The deployment of an airbag could also severely injure or even crush your dog.

Even in the back seat, an unrestrained dog can be at risk. A sudden stop could cause them to fly forward into the windshield or the driver, leading to serious injury. A car travel seat for dogs can help mitigate these risks.

Manage Car Sickness and Anxiety:

Some dogs get car sick, which can lead to discomfort and potential messes in the car. Ensuring they are safely restrained may help to reduce their anxiety and prevent motion sickness.

An anxious dog in a car can be more prone to moving around, increasing the risk of distraction and accidents. Proper restraint and creating a comfortable environment can help alleviate anxiety.

Legal and Practical Reasons:

Laws regarding travelling with dogs in cars vary by state. Make sure you follow the law in your area. Using appropriate restraint systems will help you comply with these regulations.

Knowing that your dog is securely fastened allows you to focus on driving and enjoy the journey without constant worry about your pet’s safety.

Enhance Travel Experience:

For a longer road trip with a dog, ensuring they are safely restrained and comfortable can make the journey more enjoyable for both of you.

Use products like a dog safety car seat, a crate, or a harness to transport a dog in a car safely. These solutions help keep your dog secure and reduce the risk of injury.

How Do I Prepare My Dog to Travel in the Car?

Preparing your dog for car travel involves several steps to ensure their safety and comfort. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:

Plan for Frequent Breaks

During a longer road trip with your dog, you will need to schedule regular stops. These breaks allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and stay hydrated (not to mention give you rest, too). Frequent breaks help keep your dog comfortable and prevent restlessness.

Stay Alert to Your Environment

Be mindful of your surroundings while travelling. Look for potential hazards such as traffic, unfamiliar animals, or extreme weather conditions. Ensuring a safe environment will make the journey more pleasant for your dog.

Begin with Brief Trips

If you want to get your dog used to their car restraint system, start by taking your dog on short car rides to help them get used to travelling. Gradually increase the length of the trips as your dog becomes more comfortable with the experience, reducing their anxiety and building positive associations with car travel.

Avoid Feeding While the Car is in Motion

If you have a car-sick dog, feeding them while the car is moving can lead to further motion sickness. Instead, feed your dog well before the trip to reduce the risk of vomiting.

Never Leave Your Pet Alone in the Car

One of the most vital points of dog car safety is to never leave your dog unattended in the vehicle, especially in extreme weather conditions. Even with the windows cracked and you having only nipped away for a moment, the temperature inside can rise quickly, leading to heatstroke or other health issues. Always remove your pup from whatever dog safety car seat or restrain system you have and take them with you when you leave the vehicle.

Keep Your Dog from Sticking Its Head Out the Window

While many dogs enjoy the sensation of wind on their face, it can be hazardous. Debris and insects can cause injuries, the rush of wind can dry out their eyes, and sudden stops can lead to accidents. Keep your dog safely inside their car travel seat to prevent such risks.

Ensure the Air-Conditioning is Always On

Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the car will be better for your dog's well-being. Always keep the air-conditioning on, especially during hot weather, to prevent overheating and ensure a pleasant trip.

Rules and Regulations for Car Travel with Your Dog

When you travel with your dog in your car in Australia, you need to follow the rules and regulations to ensure safety for both you and your pet.

General Rules

The laws regarding how you travel with dogs in cars vary by state, but there are some universal rules to follow:
•   No Dogs on Lap: Driving with your dog on your lap is prohibited in all parts of Australia. The driver must maintain clear, unobstructed views of the road and traffic.
•   Proper Control: The driver must always have proper vehicle control. Dogs jumping around, hanging out of windows, or causing distractions can result in fines.
•   Obstruction and Distraction: It’s an offence for your dog to obstruct your vision or distract you or other drivers.

Restraints and Safety

•   Airbag Safety: There are no specific rules about dogs riding in the front passenger seat, but if deployed, airbags can seriously injure or even kill a dog.
•    Harness and Seatbelt: Restraining your dog with a harness or dog seatbelt is strongly recommended for their safety and the safety of all passengers.
•    Utility Vehicles: Dogs must be tethered or enclosed when travelling in the back of utes or trucks. Failure to do so is an offence in all parts of Australia except the NT.

State-Based Laws for Dog Car Travel

For more information on the specific laws in each state about a car trip with your dog, review these links:
•    Dog in car laws in NSW
•    Dog in car laws in WA
•    Dog in car laws in QLD
•    Dog in car laws in VIC
•    Dog in car laws in SA
•    Dog in car laws in TAS
•   Dog in car laws in NT
•    Dog in car laws in ACT

What Are Some Common Hazards for Dogs in Cars?

Ensuring dog car safety prevents various hazards that can pose risks to your pet during travel. Here are some common hazards to be aware of when travelling with your dog:

Unrestrained Dogs

One of the biggest dangers in dog car travel is an unrestrained dog. Without a dog seat belt or a proper dog car restraint system, your pet can become a distraction and a projectile in the event of sudden stops or accidents. Always have your dog secured, for example in a dog safety car seat or a car travel seat for dogs.

Motion Sickness

Many dogs get car sick, leading to discomfort and potential messes. Symptoms of a car sick dog include drooling, lethargy, and vomiting.

To manage motion sickness, start with short trips and gradually increase the duration. Avoid feeding your dog right before the journey, and consult your vet for possible remedies.

Leaving a dog in the car

Leaving dogs in hot cars is very dangerous and can lead to death. Avoid leaving a dog in the car, even in the shade or with the windows rolled down. Even on mild days, temperatures in a car can rapidly heat up to reach more than double the outside temperature. If you see a dog in a hot car and are worried, call the local police or RSPCA.

Open Windows

Allowing your dog to stick their head out of an open window can lead to eye injuries from debris and increase the risk of them falling out or attempting to escape.

Keep the windows closed or only slightly open. Use window guards if necessary to ensure your dog’s safety.

Distractions

An unrestrained or anxious dog can become a significant distraction for the driver, increasing the risk of an accident. To keep your dog calm, secure it in a dog seat belt or crate and provide it with familiar items or toys.

Inadequate Ventilation

Poor ventilation can lead to respiratory issues, especially in hot weather. Ensure proper airflow in the car, and regularly check on your dog during the journey.

Anxiety and Stress

A dog anxious in a car can become agitated and potentially hurt themselves or distract the driver. To make them feel secure, use calming techniques such as playing soft music, providing comfort items, and using a dog car restraint system.

Long Road Trips

Extended periods in the car can lead to discomfort, restlessness, and health issues.
On a road trip with a dog, plan frequent stops for exercise, hydration, and bathroom breaks.

Improperly Secured Crates

An unsecured crate can move around during travel, causing injuries. Always secure crates properly in the back seat or cargo area.

FAQs

Can I leave my dogs in cars?
Leaving a dog unattended in a car can be dangerous. Avoid leaving a dog in the car, even in the shade or with the windows rolled down. Even on mild days, temperatures in a car can rapidly rise to more than double the outside temperature.
Do I need to have a dog harnessed or restrained in the car whilst driving?
You should never leave your dog loose in the car. In the event of an accident, an unsecured dog could not only seriously hurt themselves but could also be a danger to other passengers in the car. They may also distract you while you drive. Laws regarding travelling with dogs in cars vary by state – make sure you follow the law in your area.

Is it illegal to drive with a dog unharnessed?
Laws regarding travelling with dogs in cars vary by state – make sure you follow the law in your area.

PET-0138-2021
Can my dog ride in the front seat?

While it is not illegal for your dog to ride in the front seat, it is generally not recommended for several safety reasons:
•    Airbag Risk: Airbags deploy with significant force and can seriously injure or even kill a dog if they are sitting in the front seat during a collision.
•    Distraction: A dog in the front seat can be a distraction to the driver, increasing the risk of an accident.
•    Optimal Safety: Your dog is safest in the back seat, secured with a dog seat belt, harness, or crate. It minimises distractions and better protects them in case of an accident.

For enhanced dog car safety, it's best to secure your dog in the back seat or cargo area using appropriate restraint systems, ensuring both your safety and that of your furry companion.

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