Driving with pets

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If your pet is not used to being in a vehicle, take it for a few short trips before going on a longer journey; bring along a leash, some food, a favourite toy and a pooper-scooper.

Pet carriers of various sizes can be purchased for cats or small dogs. Harnesses and net or cage barriers for station wagons are available for larger pets.

Why bother with a pet restraint?
Restraints protect both pets and humans by:

• protecting the driver or passengers from being hit by them if they are in a crash
• preventing pets from escaping through a door or window
• preventing them from moving around and distracting the driver.

Protect your pet
Do not let your pet's head extend out of the car window as particles of dirt can injure their eyes and nose and excessive amounts of cold air can injure their lungs.

For older and/or larger dogs, which have difficulty getting in and out of a vehicle, consider providing a ramp for them.

Dogs in utes
Under the Dog and Cat Management Act, dogs traveling in the rear of utes or on tray tops must be caged or tethered at all times so that they cannot reach the sides of the vehicle (except for farm dogs engaged in stock droving).

Other important Information
Consult your vet for further advice.