As a dog owner, there will be plenty of times when you’ll travel with your canine companion. But there are certain rules and laws you need to follow when driving with your dog in your vehicle, and this can vary from state to state.
DiscoverCars.com experts have put together this guide on the rules surrounding driving with dogs in your vehicle, as some states have strict regulations and specific laws that you need to adhere to. If you’re planning on an interstate road trip with your four-legged friend, here’s what you need to know.
Crates and harnesses
Driving with your dog in the vehicle can potentially be very dangerous if they are not restrained properly. Dogs or pets that are not fastened in could jolt from sudden movements, which could cause severe injuries to the animal, passengers, and even other road users.
Hawaii, New Jersey, and Rhode Island are the three states that have laws surrounding traveling with your pet in the car. In these states, you could be fined if your dog is not secured in a harness, seatbelt, carrier, or crate.
Distracted driver laws
Some states have laws that mean you can get in trouble if you drive with a dog or pet in your lap, as this can be classed as distracted driving. Arizona, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Iowa are some of the states that have distracted driver laws.
Open-bed trucks
There are some states that have laws banning driving with unsecured animals in the open bed of your vehicle. This is because it could be very dangerous for both the animals and other road users, as unsecured pets could easily fall out and become severely injured or cause an accident. Oregon, Washington, and New Hampshire are some of the states that prohibit driving with unsecured pets in the open bed of a truck.
Leaving your dog unattended
Many states have laws prohibiting leaving your animal in the vehicle in conditions that could endanger its life. Some states will grant civil immunity to those who rescue animals from vehicles. This includes not leaving them in extreme hot or cold temperatures, or in a vehicle that is not well-ventilated. You should also make sure that your pet has proper food and water too.
It’s always best to avoid leaving your dog in the car unattended, especially on warm days when it could easily get too hot.
Dogs in rental cars
If you’re planning to rent a car for your road trip, make sure that the car rental company allows animals in the vehicle. While many car rental companies allow pets, you’ll need to take extra care to make sure you return the car in clean condition. This is another reason to bring a comfy dog crate for your canine friend – in addition to keeping them safe on the road, it will protect the seats from any dog hair that you’ll need to clean up.
General state entry requirements
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, when taking your pet to another state or territory, you may need to talk to your veterinarian first. This is because some states may have animal health requirements, meaning you may need to update your animal’s vaccinations and obtain a health certificate before travel. Make sure you do this sometime before you travel, to make sure you have everything you need before getting behind the wheel.
Tips for taking your dog on long road trips
If you’ve never traveled with your dog before, you might be thinking about how you can make the experience as safe and comfortable for them as possible. Here are some tips to bear in mind before setting off on longer car journeys:
Make regular stops: Stopping at gas stations on your way is a great way to give your dog some time outside in the fresh air. You should stop every few hours to let them out for some exercise and a bathroom break.
Bring their favorite toy along: If your dog has never traveled with you before, it can be a daunting new experience for them. Bringing their comfort toys for the journey could help make the experience more enjoyable and relaxing for them.
Maintain a comfortable temperature: You should keep your vehicle cool and well-ventilated on warm days to make sure your pet is comfortable at all times.
Aleksandrs Buraks, Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com, comments:
“Whether you’re driving across the country with your dog or simply down the road, it’s important you follow the rules and laws of the state you’re in. Some states have strict rules about securing your pet in your vehicle, and breaking them can not only result in a fine—but you risk the safety of yourself, your pet, and everyone else around you.
“If you’re taking your pet with you on a road trip, it’s essential that you ensure their safety and comfort by providing them with a harness, crate, or another device approved by vets.”
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
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