Here's what Florida law says about dogs in back of pickup trucks

Trooper Steve says common sense, not law, should prevail

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.

Edward, of Orlando, asked if it's legal for drivers to have dogs in the back of their pickup trucks.

"Searching through Florida traffic law, there was nothing addressing the legality of transporting your family dog in the back of a pickup truck," Trooper Steve said. "The law does address children in the back of a truck, but there's nothing about our pets."

Florida law does address the ability to control your dog so that it's not a threat to public safety, but it doesn’t discuss how to keep dogs safe while traveling.

[ASK TROOPER STEVE: Send safety question to Trooper Steve]

"Part of the reason is because that’s on you," Trooper Steve said. "There are some municipalities that have ordinances governing the issue, but that is done on a town-by-town basis."

Trooper Steve says the issue should come down to common sense. 

"If you love your pet and consider them a family member, why in the world are we putting them in such a situation where we need to question the legality of our actions?" he said. "Our roads are under construction everywhere, meaning they are bumpy. Can we please just keep our pets in the car?"

If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.

 


About the Authors:

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Recommended Videos