U.S. dogs set for seatbelts

It may be time for Rover to ride restrained, as a proposed US bill would force drivers to make sure their dogs belt up for the car journey.

Republican Jim Cobb is pushing for the bill, claiming that unrestrained dogs can be distracting and dangerous.  If this bill is passed, then failure to comply would constitute a Class C Misdemeanour offence, resulting in up to a month in a jail or a $50 fine, or even both.

A spokesman for Mr. Cobb told the Mail Online: “He (Mr. Cobb) basically said you're meant to not have an animal in the driver’s lap.”

“It’s (the bill) meant to make sure they don’t have it in the lap as it can impair your driving ability.”

The proposal has been passed through Tennessee’s transport sub-committee, and now awaits examination by the full transport committee and finance departments.

Whilst such a bill is not in the works on this side of the Atlantic, the success of such a move could set a precedent and prompt our government to assess the idea of getting man’s best friend to buckle up for a ruff ride.

 

Posted by James Pickard on 16 Dec 2010Compare Pet Insurance News

    Comment:

    Comments:

    I actually use one of these already in the UK. I bought it for my dog when I first got him (at age 2) and it's adjustable. I figured if we were to have a collision, I'd want Bailey to be as protected as anyone else in the car against just flying off the seat and getting injured.

    Posted by Jason on 17th December 2011

    It can only be positive to have your dog harnessed in he car. If dog owners are responsible they will want to ensure their dog is restrained while on the move anyway, for their pet's safety if nothing else. Dog seat belts aren't expensive, so if you have no other form of securing your mutt why not use one to keep you and your dog safe?!

    Posted by Claire on 17th March 2011

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