Everything you need to know about transporting dogs in cars

Do you transport your pet a lot in your car? Do you think you know everything about transporting them and the fines that exist if you don't comply? We've got you covered.

If you're going on a trip with your pet, and you want to do it legally and safely so that everything goes smoothly, then there are a few things you need to know about transporting dogs in cars.

Legislation on the transportation of pets is covered by article 10 of Decree-Law 276/2001, of October 17, as amended by Decree-Law 315/2003, of December 17. According to this article "the transportation of animals must be carried out in vehicles and containers appropriate to the species and number of animals to be transported, taking into account space, ventilation, temperature, safety and water supply in order to safeguard their protection and the safety of people and other animals".

Animals are considered to be cargo (article 56 of the Highway Code). As such, it is essential that when transporting an animal in a vehicle you ensure that driving is not impaired or that safety is not compromised. However, let's remember that the Portuguese Parliament unanimously approved a legal statute for animals, which gives animals the status of "living beings endowed with sensitivity" and "object of legal protection by virtue of their nature".

Transporting your dog must not interfere with driving. Therefore, despite being part of the family, man's best friend must not be allowed to run around the car playing. If you are pulled over by the police or any other security force and your dog is roaming freely in the car, you could face a fine of between 60€ and 600€.

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To avoid these fines, you should use one of these ways of transporting dogs in a car:

1. A shipping box

The crate is the most obvious choice, as long as it's suitable for your pet and leaves him free to move around inside.

1. A seat belt for dogs

Yes, it exists. For transporting dogs in cars, there is a seat belt specifically for our best friends. This belt connects the harness to the dog's collar, preventing the dog from suffering in the event of an accident, just like humans.

1. A dividing grille

In many cars it is possible to keep dogs in the back by using a dividing grille, turning the car into a kind of light commercial vehicle. This gives the animals a bit more room to move around, but offers less protection than the other two alternatives.

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Source: E-KONOMISTA (adapted)

Translated with DeepL.com