dog in car victoria

Driving with a dog in Victoria? Keep them restrained—use a crash-tested harness clipped to the seatbelt or a secured crate—because a 15 kg kelpie becomes a flying missile in a sudden stop. It’s illegal to drive with an animal on your lap, and an unsecured dog on the open tray of a ute is a no-go; tether or cage, and give them shade and water. Back seat is best; airbags and wet noses don’t mix. Never leave a dog in a parked car—cabins can rocket past 50°C in minutes, and that’s not just a quick shop, that’s an emergency. For extra brownie points (and fewer fines), follow RACV/RSPCA guidance and fit the restraint properly. The law sets the baseline; common sense finishes the job.