‘Stupid’: Shock over dog’s treatment
Australians are divided on whether dogs should be allowed to travel on the back of utes and trailers after an image of one pet sparked outrage.
The anger was sparked by a Townsville resident who took a photo of one dog owner taking their pet on a drive, with the dog seen tied up at the back of an open trailer.
The black and white dog can be seen tied up to a bunch of wires in the centre of the trailer in the image, posted on social media.
Despite being tied up, many pointed out the lack of walls around the trailer could lead to the dog being bumped or knocked over the edge.
The dog is seen in the photo with its tail between its legs, which are braced for the upcoming journey.
“Irresponsible pet owner right there,” one local said while others suggested calling the police.
Some worried the dog would become too hot while standing exposed on the black metal tray.
Others defended the owner, saying their pets prefer being out in the wind as opposed to inside a car.
“They love riding utes!” one person argued.
Dog owners in all Australian states and territories are banned from transporting dogs unrestrained in the back of utes or trailers.
They are allowed to leave their pet in the open if they are tied down and secured in a way that prevents them from being injured or falling from the vechile.
“Also remember not to drive with your dog in the tray of the ute, or another open vehicle or trailer if the dog is going to be exposed to extreme weather conditions,” the RSPCA warns.
“In addition, ute trays or other metal surfaces can get very hot in the sun and dogs can burn their footpads so please take precautions to protect your dog.
“Consider safely restraining your dog in the cabin of your ute or open vehicle with a safety-belt restraint as this is generally safer, especially in the case of an accident.”
