In response to viral photos depicting his dog tethered to the back of his plumbing company’s vehicle as it navigated busy Melbourne streets, a dog owner has come forward to justify his decision.
The images captured the attention of social media users, who had mixed reactions to the scene. The plumber explained to Yahoo News Australia that his dog willingly hops into the pickup truck each morning, and he has to coax him out when it rains.
Animal welfare activists have criticized the practice, citing safety concerns in the event of an accident or mishap on the road. However, some dog owners argue that their pets enjoy accompanying them on their daily activities, as an alternative to being left alone at home.
One Reddit user commented on the image, questioning why someone would have a dog if they transported it this way. Another user expressed concern about the potential dangers of the dog’s position in the event of a minor accident or rough road conditions.
A third user stressed the importance of using a body harness to secure dogs in the back of vehicles for safety reasons, even sharing their own practice of using a harness in the back seat of their car.
The RSPCA recommended restraining dogs inside the car cabin with a safety belt, emphasizing the safety benefits, especially in the event of an accident or sudden braking. They also advised ensuring that the dog’s presence does not obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with vehicle control. If carrying a dog in the back is necessary, the restraint should be of appropriate length to allow the dog to stand and lie down comfortably, without the risk of jumping or falling during transit.
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