Dogs on Utes

Many dogs nation-wide are killed or injured from travelling on the back of open and moving vehicles each year.

Common causes of injury are: 

• Dogs falling off the back of the vehicle whilst it is moving

• Dogs being struck by oncoming or passing vehicles

• Dogs being dragged alongside moving vehicles

• Dogs attempting to jump from moving vehicles.

- F A T A L I T Y P R E V E N T I O N O N U T E S - 

If a lead or chain is used to secure a dog, it must be long enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down but short enough to ensure the dog cannot reach the sides of the vehicle, get onto the cab or harass passers-by when the vehicle is parked. Long tethers can be more dangerous than none; if the dog does fall off the vehicle it may be dragged and/or strangled.

It is also important to use swivels to attach the tether to both the vehicle and the dog's collar to prevent the chain from tangling. Never use twine, rope, wire or similar materials as these can cause injuries if the dog becomes tangled in the tether. 

Thick, quality linked chain is the best option
If using a cage, maximise the dog's safety and comfort by ensuring the cage is the right size to prevent cramping and overcrowding, a padded surface to lower the chance of skin injuries and well-covered to provide shelter from sun, wind and rain and placed directly behind the cabin to minimise exposure to dust and wind.