This controversial act with dog on highway sparks debate online

When it comes to our furry friends, we are a passionate bunch. We love our pets and often go to great lengths to ensure their safety and happiness.

However, a recent incident has sparked a heated debate among pet owners and animal lovers, highlighting the divide in opinions on what constitutes appropriate dog transportation.



A driver was recently spotted on a Sydney highway travelling at 110km/h with their pet dog in the ute tray, exposed to the high-speed winds and the risks of the open road.

A fellow motorist captured the image of the dog, its head peeking over the edge of the tray, and shared it on social media, sparking a conversation.


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A motorist captured the image of a dog in the ute tray. Credit: Reddit


The image quickly became a flashpoint for controversy, with some condemning the act as dangerous and irresponsible.

The term 'horrific' has been used by some to describe this method of transporting a beloved pet, suggesting that it shows a lack of care and consideration for the animal's well-being.

On the other hand, some defended the practice, claiming that it is perfectly safe.



This isn't the first time such a method of pet transportation has come under scrutiny.

Incidents in the Gold Coast and Townsville have previously made headlines, with dogs being tied to the backs of utes without lids, relying solely on their leads to keep them from tumbling onto the road.

These cases have been met with labels such as 'irresponsible'.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), a leading authority on animal welfare, has clear guidelines on this matter.

In New South Wales, for example, it is mandated that dogs cannot be transported on a ute tray or in the open back of a vehicle unless they are 'sufficiently restrained or enclosed in such a manner as to prevent the dog from falling’.



‘RSPCA NSW encourages dog owners to consider safely restraining their dogs within the cabin of their vehicle with a safety-belt restraint, or within an enclosure or crate as this is generally safer, especially in the case of an accident or sudden braking,’ a spokesperson said.

In the case of the Sydney sighting, it is unclear whether the dog was tethered, but the raised ute tray suggested that the dog was confined to the space, potentially reducing the likelihood of injury or escape.
Key Takeaways
  • A driver was criticised for travelling at high speed with their pet dog in the ute tray, leading to a divide in opinions among Australians.
  • Transporting dogs in ute trays has been a subject of debate, with instances of dogs being tied to the back causing public uproar.
  • RSPCA NSW advises that dogs on ute trays must be restrained or enclosed to prevent them from falling off and that in-vehicle restraints or enclosures are generally safer.
  • It's required in NSW that the restraint is only long enough for the dog to stand and lie down, reducing the risk of injury or falling from the vehicle.
What are your thoughts on this divisive issue? Have you ever transported your pet in a similar manner, or do you have alternative methods that you believe are safer? Share your stories and opinions with us in the comments below!
 
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