Transporting a dog in a car. Violation of the regulations may result in a hefty fine

Like any passenger in a car, a dog is also exposed to the risks associated with travel. We explain how to properly transport a dog to ensure the safety of all passengers. It is worth knowing the regulations, because breaking them can result in a high fine.

According to data from the Weterynaria News portal, 65 percent of Poles take their four-legged friends on vacation . They increasingly choose cars as their primary means of transport, so as not to expose the dog to the stress of traveling in the cargo hold of an airplane. In the car, the dog stays with its owners and does not require sedatives. However, safety should still be remembered.

Road traffic regulations do not contain detailed regulations regarding the transport of dogs. However, this does not mean that you can transport your pets in any way you want. According to the applicable regulations, a dog, like any other "cargo", should be properly secured. There are regulations that indirectly refer to this issue:

• Art. 60.1 of the Road Traffic Act - "It is prohibited to use vehicles in a manner that endangers the safety of any person in or outside the vehicle."
• Art. 61 sec. 2 points 3 and 4 and sec. 3 of the Road Traffic Act - "The load in the vehicle shall be placed in such a way that it does not hinder driving the vehicle, does not limit the visibility of the road and is secured against changing position."
• Art. 6 sec. 2 of the Animal Protection Act - "Transporting animals, moving or driving animals in a way that causes them unnecessary suffering and stress is a crime, i.e. animal cruelty."

In the eyes of the law, a dog is considered cargo and should be properly secured . There are various solutions available on the market that ensure the safety of dogs during travel.

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You can use carriers or the trunk area. In the case of SUVs or station wagons, you can use a protective net separating the trunk from the passenger area. There are also special seat belts available that are attached to the dog's harness.

If, during a road check, the police find that the dog is being transported in a way that endangers other road users, the driver may be fined. The fine can be up to PLN 500 , depending on which regulation is violated.

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According to data from the Police Headquarters, in 2023, the Polish police issued almost four million tickets for traffic violations. It is better to take care of your dog's safety and travel in accordance with the regulations.