In NSW you are required to restrain your pet while driving, this ensures the driver is not distracted when driving, and to increase safety for all vehicle occupants in the event of an accident.
You should also consider the safety and comfort of your hound when travelling and in case of an accident. If an animal is injured due to being unrestrained, owners can face fines and or jail time under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
There are various ways you can comfortably and safely restrain your hound for car travel.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Seatbelts – are readily available for all types of cars. If your hound is the type that gets restless in the car and moves around a lot, an extendable or longer seatbelt may be required to prevent them from getting tangled.
- Harness – a comfortable, well-fitted harness is recommended when using a seatbelt. In the unfortunate circumstances of an accident or if you need to slam on the brakes, a seatbelt attached to a collar can be a choking hazard.
- Hammocks – are very handy to prevent your hound from falling off the back seat and getting wedged on the floor of the car behind the front seats. A hammock makes the back seat more comfortable as well as keep your car seats clean and free of muddy paw prints! Please note, a hammock alone will not restrain your pet from distracting the driver and is best used in conjunction with a seatbelt and harness.
- Cargo Barriers – can be a great way to restrain your pet if you have a wagon. If your hound is traveling in the cargo section, make sure to lay down some padding so it’s just like a big comfy bed. You can still clip your hound in when traveling in this manner.
Clipping your hound in with a seat belt and harness can help protect your hound in case of an accident. In addition it also prevents your hound from leaning out of an open window to the extent that the hound can be hit by another car, car part or object, so if your hound is car window surfing, please restrict their movement to prevent potential injury.
We strongly recommend against carrying a hound on the back of a ute or open-back vehicle. There are several dangers associated with transporting any animal in this way, not to mention it would be very frightening for them.
Enjoy your travels and please keep your hound safe and comfortable.
Harnesses and seatbelts are available for purchase at the Greyhound Rescue shop.
