California State Law on Pet Transport
Each state has distinct laws regarding how pets can be transported. In California, there are very few laws that pertain to transporting pets in cars. Despite a lack of California legislation to govern how individuals can travel with their pets, there are still considerations pet owners should take into account.
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Significance
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According to Newser, the California governor vetoed a bill in 2006 that would have banned driving around with a dog on the lap. The law would have enabled police to fine a driver for the offense. Although California residents have a legal right to ride with their dogs on their lap, they should always consider the dangers of driving with an unharnessed dog. During a car crash, accident or sudden stop animals are just as vulnerable to injury as humans.
Animals Left in Cars
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According to the Orlando Sentinel, in California, it is a crime to leave a pet in a car. In warm weather, a pet left in a car too long can suffer from heat exhaustion or even death. California banned the legality of leaving animals in the car to reduce the chances of an animal suffering injury in an enclosed vehicle during winter frosts or heat waves.
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Considerations for Safe Travel
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Individuals interested in protecting their pets during transport can take certain measures. For example, there are a variety of dog car seats and doggy seat belts that are ideal for increasing animal safety. Smaller pets such as cats, birds, and other small animals can be restrained inside a pet carrier. Pet carriers can be secured with a seat belt.
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References
- Photo Credit Chien Teckel au volant d'une voiture image by Yann Gourvennec from Fotolia.com