Does your dog ride in the ute?

Tethering your dog when he rides in the back of your utility is legal requirement.  This will help keep your dog safely in place and help you avoid a hefty fine.  An unsecured dog is considered an unsecured load.  He should not be able to get his head over the side at all.  Dogs have been injured being struck by other vehicles or branches.  Others have become flying missiles, dragged or hung when they have had ‘too much rope’ (so to speak).

Keeping him in snug will also prevent him being able to reach passers by when either stationary or moving.  Place him safely in a cage or tether him, but not using a choke or slip lead as this can strangle him in a sudden stop or accident.
Other loose equipment in the back needs to be secured so it cannot slide forward onto him. Please be mindful of temperatures as a metal utility tray can heat up quickly and I can’t tell you how many times I have seen a dog tethered in the back on a metal tray with no matting.

Having him positioned directly behind the cab will minimize his exposure to wind and especially dust that ends up in eyes and lungs.

 

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)