Our pets are part of the family and we love to take them with us wherever we go. Not only do we enjoy their company, but we also feel safe when they tag along for the journey. However, is it safe, or even legal, for humans and their pets to travel together? Read on to find out!
Before we get upset – let’s talk legal first. It’s not illegal to drive around with your pets, but it is of the utmost importance that the driver of the vehicle is not distracted by fellow passengers – irrespective of whether they are humans or animals!
“Animals tend to get upset and disorientated when travelling by car. Knowing how to cope with this is vital to their wellbeing – as well as your own!”, says Arrive Alive.
Here are some pet travelling guidelines by Arrive Alive:
Before travelling with your pet
Restraining the Pet
The health of the travelling animal companion/pet
RULES OF THE ROAD WHEN TRAVELLING WITH PETS
According to the Road Safety Regulation 308, there are a few rules to which drivers and passengers should adhere to:
GENERAL DUTIES OF DRIVER OR PASSENGER OF VEHICLE ON PUBLIC ROAD
Reg 308. (1) No person driving or having a vehicle on a public road shall—
(c) permit any person, animal or object to occupy any position in or on such vehicle which may prevent the driver thereof from exercising complete control over the movements of the vehicle or signalling his or her intention of stopping, slowing down or changing direction;
(j) permit any person or animal to occupy the roof, any step or running board or any other place on top of a vehicle while such vehicle is in motion;
As loving pet parents, we cannot distance ourselves from the responsibility that comes with our furballs, especially when on the road. The most important thing to remember is to always put safety first and to take extra care not to endanger your life, the lives of our (pet and human) passengers and fellow road users. If Bella drools in distress every time you take her with you on a short drive, rather not let her tag along for the journey – especially if there are other, more convenient options available, such as your pet-loving friends/family members who would gladly volunteer as pet sitters. On the other hand, if your pet enjoys a road trip, grab their leash, buckle that booster, and let the wheels on the ‘bus’ (safely) go ‘round and ‘round. Anybody else in the mood for a ‘lekker’ road trip and some carpool karaoke?
Just before we drive off and get lost in the lyrics of don’t forget to cover your pocket, pet and car against unexpected emergencies that might try to pull the brakes on your fun! Luckily, this is the easiest part of your trip, because dotsure.co.za offers a wide variety of options for easy and affordable pet and car insurance. You can even quote and buy online right from your phone in minutes! So, there’s no need to move and shake without enjoying complete peace of mind. 😊
Safe travels!
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