Get off the Phone and care enough to Train your Kids and your Dog to behave in a moving vehicle.

I am amazed at the people who think their dog is safe in the back of a moving uncovered pickup truck because he is trained to stay there. How can anyone be so stupid? When the brakes are applied or another vehicle runs into yours the dog is thrown from the truck. He has not control over his fate. Wake up and use your tiny little brain.

I live in Mexico. As I drove to the airport in Guadalajara a month ago, I noticed a very large Mastiff in the back of the pick-up truck in front of me, its rib cage starkly visible. In disbelief, I watched as it prepared to jump out of the moving truck in the midst of three lanes of highway traffic. As it jumped, I then realized that it was chained to the truck bed. In one of the most agonizing scenes I have ever witnessed, I watched helplessly as this poor animal was dragged along beside the truck to which it was tethered by 12 feet of cheap wire chain, which mercifully broke after what seemed like an eternity. Amazingly, the dog got to its feet and loped through two lanes of traffic to the side of the road. The owner pulled over, and came running back with a big smile on his face, to reclaim his dog and, presumably, chain it in the back of his truck again. In any number of other countries, he would have been reported to the authorities, arrested, convicted of abuse, fined, banned from ever owning an animal again, and perhaps even sentenced to jail. In Mexico, this incident barely turned heads, no law was violated and there is no SPCA to report the incident to.

Oh you city people are so funny. It depends on the dog. I have had some that could leave in the back of a truck walk away for hours and would not get out without the right command, others I knew better. I also have a bike with a sidecar something. Leash laws are the same Butttercup could have cared less if your cat was 3 feet away with t-bones wrapped around it. Unless I said break Buttercuped stayed on my rt side no more than two feet period. yep even took him into big cities lots of times without incidents. Except people freaking out on a male 130 lbs Rottweiler named Buttercup. My Healers do not get out of the back of my truck unless who ever puts them in mumbles "Ok" as my old girlfriend learned, me being the only exception on commands. They do not stand or put their paws on the side of the truck to look out period unless jumping in or out. You have to ask is this your pet, friend or part of the family and who is the master. My Grandfather could leave me at the truck but not my sister, something know your dog, like you know your family both take proper training and love. By the way to train them I had to ride in the back of the truck with all of them several times but in doing so I know they are safe.

I would NEVER put any of my dogs in the back of a pick-up truck. I love them way too much! Many people don't want their dogs inside their cars/houses because they feel the dog will make things dirty, potty or infest the car/house with fleas. Here's a few HINTS: clean your house, bathe your dog, housetrain him and put flea meds on him. Why are people so damn lazy??? Oh and I must mention that most of the people I've seen who don't allow their pets in their cars/houses have the filthiest cars/houses anyway! Okay so maybe cleanliness is not the reason for some of this irresponsibility. Someone on here did say that their dog climbs into their lap in the car. Okay, I had this same problem with my dog and I'm going to share with you my secret: TRAIN YOUR DOG! Sad that I actually had to say that. Geesh... people are stupid and irresponsible!

Just plain STUPID and IRRESPONSIBLE to put a dog in the back of a truck and drive. You people do NOT deserve to have pets. Justify it all you want....you don't give a FLIP about that animal.

I am personally very close to this issue as I witnessed an unrestrained dog fall out of the back of a truck that had its tailgate down recently. This occurred on a major interstate near a major city in the South. We rescued the dog after taking our own life in our hands by walking down the interstate median. FORTUNATELY, the dog survived, which was remarkable, and only has a broken hip and some road burn. I think this is cruel, especially with the tailgate down!!!, and will be calling the authorities immediately if I ever witness this occurring again. As pet owners we need to be responsible and take care of these defenseless animals.

Dog owner and pick up owner! I can understand both sides please don't get me wrong! I guess I just believe that common sense would be the best tool here! My dog has rode in the bed unrestrained for three years and as easily traveled more miles then 90% of the human population I'm not being dramatic or exaggerating in any sense! She's been to 46 states 70% of those states more then twice... And she as never jumped out ( now again I'm not saying dogs never jump out I'll get to that point in a sec) not even when I go in the store. If a stranger calls her a tries to get jump out she ignores them ( yes I've paid a stranger on more then one occasion I wanted to make sure) or if some tries to pet her she goes to the other side of the truck if some tries to remove her from the truck yeah I guess you could say I wouldn't suggest doing that even if your wearing an attach suite. Again Ive paid strangers and watched from a far on more then one occasion. As far as the distracted point my dog is dog agressive ( and yes we are in traing to work on this problem) as well as a cattle dog. Any dog/cat/squirrel/ bunnie/ cat cow(!!!) can be parked next to us or walk/ run/ drive by in a parking lot/ road/ yard/ field ( doesn't matter) the dog as not/ will not jump out. It took alot of work alot of training. not " I felt like going to the lake so thew my dog in the truck bed for the first time untrained and headed down the road and omg my dog jumped/fell out" shocking!! Really!!!??? Lol and for the what if you wreck or roll your vehicle,?, if you roll your vehicle and you are wearing your seat belt ( and please note that trillion of dollars have been spent on safety features and safety research/testing intended for humans... Not to mention the intire Desing and concept of a car/ pick up is designed for humans safety not pets! Darn you car makers!wow!) you will be blessed to survive! Now you think your dog is going to be any safer in side a vehicle flipping and rolling and wrecking?? Really? Oh I know let's strap/ seatbelt the dog in to the in side the flipping rolling wrecking vehicle wow and some think I'm crazy and cruel!! Like I said before trillions of dollars spent on safety for humans in vehicle,,, not pets im not going tostrap my dog in ( which is stressfull for her!) with a contraption because it cost 100 dollars and some one says its safe and with no trillion dollar research. and how many ppl die even though they wore their seat belts you think your dogs gonna survie? You hope so but be realistic! Bad things happen. You know cows/ horses often get struck my lightning and die Does this mean that cows shouldn't be allowed to be out side in pasture no I know it's the owned fault he should have rounded up the heard and brought them in the barn orrrrr went out in the field and made them all lie down! Idk sorry for being dramatic! But what do you do bad things do happen! And yes my dog is the happiest dog in the world she's is well cared for she is feed before me! Doctored before me! And I don't mean that I can't pay fore both her and I the point is she is taken care of before me because its my responsibility as a pet owner to take care of an animal I have chose to make unable to take care of it's self ( aka domesticated) I have many problems with ppl following me and yell at me for putting the dog in the back or making comments. As I tell them you don't know my dog or me! End of story! I'm not suggesting ppl should work with their dog for aweek and then think their ready to go down the road! Then you are ignorant! Again common sense and I agree it's not so common any more! Ive had the cops called and that's fine it's not against the law I or my dog did any thing wrong! You can Try to change the law but I would suggest you take that time effort and money and focus it on rasing the future generation to contain some of this rarely found common sense and responsibility! And if you are buckling your dog into your car I'm guessing you have no children and also like to dress your dog up and tell yourself they like it now that's abuse lol in this case adopt volunteer cuz you have become you own worst nightmare! (btw I have no children but I dont pretend my dog is one. She is part of my family but she is not a child!! There is a line) One last subject I would like to cover my dog is a cattle dog... Which means she's a working girl lol and yes she does heard cattle often and well! Her job can be a dangerous job she takes on animals that weight 2300lbs and wins and makes them turn and run. but they is always the fact 99.9999% chance that she or any other acutal working cattel dog has or will be kick stomped hurt while working! So tell me is it cruel for them to desing the Australian heeler for this job! How dare they! Or is it the cows fault? Or mine for using a dog for the exact purpose it was breed for and is written in her DNA?? Yeah bad things happen doesn't mean I hope they happen or try to increase the odds of their occurrence! My dog is not physically or verbally abused or in any other way! Drivers chasing me or trying to take pictures / video of my dog in the bed or my fav. Flipping me off! Its more dangerous then my dog or her riding spot I've seen way to many close accedents caused my these ppl! Which at times I've had to call the cops on and yes they are in the wrong and breaking the law! ironic? Bottom line please mind your own business and drive past safely! You don't know me or my dog and have no buissnes or legal right! From the words of a wise man options are like a$$ &oles.... Everyone's got one! Lol and this is my option lol I know it's a lot,, it's been a big problem for me!! Thanks for reading!!!

If you think it's ok to transport your dog in the back of a Pickup truck...you don't deserve to have that dog. The love, loyalty, and TRUST that dog gives you and depends on you for...is reason alone. A quick swerve or braking action can EASILY be the difference between life and death for the dog you claim you supposedly love and care for. It is so common. With many years working in the veterinary business...case after case...it is just HEART BRAKING to witness...knowing these dogs love and TRUSTED their owners...who have FAILED THEM MISERABLY. So sad.

13% of the population has an IQ of less than 70. Unfortunately they can have kids, dogs and drivers license.

I live in California. Until I read Niña's story, I didn't know that it's illegal in California to transport unrestrained dogs in low-sided truck bed. I actually often see people driving trucks with their big furry friends in the truck bed, unrestrained. Niña's story is so sad. I hope many people read this story and realize the danger of having their pets ride with them in the truck bed.

I'll never forget. A few years ago I was driving a couple of cars behind a dog that jumped out of the back of a truck while going about 30-35 mph. It was heartbreaking to watch. All the cars on the road came to a stop while the poor dog stumbled across the street and dissapeared off the side of the road. The driver of the truck kept driving. I stopped my car and tried to find the dog and couldn't find him anywhere. Someone else also pulled over to help find the dog. I called animal control before I left and I'm not sure if they ever found the poor dog. I definitely think laws should be more strict about this. To this day when I see a dog in the back of a truck it makes me cringe.

I have got to jump on this subject. I do agree that dogs should NOT ride on toolboxes or flatbed trucks, but I have a wolf dog (80% timber wolf), that loves to ride in the back of my truck. I have a liner for the bed so his paws don't get burned. He always has water as I keep his bowl in the back and a case of bottled water. No, I DON'T restrain him as he fights the restraints and it's more of a danger to him. I CAN'T have him in the cab with me as he would jump in my lap - that would cause an accident and possibly kill me, the dog, and any other person who happened to be in the way. He has and will chew through anything that is not a strong enough metal (we are on his second metal crate). I have left my dog in the back of the truck while getting his duck for dinner and he will howl and bark, but is terrified to jump out. My truck is his safety net. I can't leave him alone as he is a pack animal and I am his pack. Do I drive like a maniac while he is in the back, HECK NO. I drive like a little old lady going to church. I make sure of my surroundings and I do not allow him to have his feet on the sides nor the wheel wells. My heart goes out to owners who have lost pets that way and to people who have witnessed accidents. If we want to go crazy, should we have leash laws for cats too? My cats are inside cats and do walk on a leash, but I see more kitties on the sides of the road than I do dogs. So, all in all, what I'm trying to get at is....my hybrid and I should be punished? He should have to stay in his cage while I go out? I would have to buy a piece of land and have play dates with others instead of being able to take him to the beach, the dog park, to the waterfront? That doesn't seem fair to him, that because of his nature of being destructive while stressed (restraining him is stressful), he would have to suffer loneliness and shunning. I love my animals and will do everything I can for them. You should not judge someone for their opinions. I was judged because I put $3000 into a cat that had cancer. Should that be banned too, because she had a death sentence? Sorry for the ramblings.

Why stop their? Isn't it just as cruel to drive vehicles that could hit animals. And whose the owner to blame when a deer runs into the road? I want his/her head. We should pass laws to ban driving altogether? No vehicles would mean no more animals getting hurt ever right? Shouldn't we also ban pools, powerlines, fences, any processed food, plumbing, farming, planes, paper, light bulbs and damn near everything else we do? Anything can be "tied" to an animals death. Kneejerk reactions to these incidents are the true stupidity. If any of you who posted and or agreed with these extremests also has ever eaten a burger or used anything that requires electricity (ie. the computer you are currently on),look in a mirror as you punch yourself in the face, as you are a hippocrit who cares no more about animals' lives as some "wreckless sadist" allowing his dog to ride unsecured in a pickup. PS: I guarantee more animals are killed every month by mining operations to get the Lithium that powers your cell phones than dogs are every year from falling out of trucks.

I "train" my dogs to stay in the back of the truck by clipping a leash THAT IS BOLTED TO THE BED on their leash. They dont even try to jump out when we pull up in front of the house until they hear the "clip" noise of the leash coming off. It's not cruel to let your dog ride in the back of the truck, if you've never watched a dog in the back of a truck, they LOVE it.

Trained to do what. Stay in a damn truck? Dogs will be dogs, and if a squirrel is in site or a cat, the dog is going to go, Plus what happens when you stop suddenly, your dog has nowhere to go but out and over the top of your cab. Working in a vet's office I've heard "I didnt think he would ever jump out", well it only takes one time and you'll be in your vet's office having an hip surgery done or euthanasia done. People that dogs in the back of a truck and worse yet on the back of a tool box are stupid. think about it, could you balance yourself on a tool box while going 55 miles an hour?.

I must agree with the people who love dogs and take good care of them and do take them around in a pick up truck. I am all for being against animal cruelty and do my very best to do what I can for them but sometimes we go too far also. I don't think its fair to put all people in same category if the dog is trained, has water, is not left out in direct sunlight etc. I don't see the cruelty!

I have witnessed many times where pickup truck owners in Florida allow their dogs to ride on the top of the toolbox mounted in the bed of the truck! This has got to stop. What can I do?

Great response Hannah, and I couldn't agree more! It just never ceases to amaze me though, how many ignorant people there are in the world. This would certainly be a good way to handle their arrogant stupidity. And we can only hope and pray for all animal's sake, that they would actually learn something.

STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES!!! That is why laws ARE created 1 to keep stupid people in control!

I really don't think dogs should be put int he backs of trucks. I bet it is safer if you have trained the dog, but still, things can happen. Like an accidnet, or even just very sudden braking. Nobody wants to hurt their dog. Plus it can't be pleasant, especially in the heat of summer or the bitterness of winter.

16 years ago I was on a road trip from Chicago to Arizona, and noticed a beautiful German Shepherd in the back of a pick-up; I felt VERY uneasy about it; and sure enough, half hour later noticed the body of that poor dog on the side of the road. I was glad to not have witnessed its death, but I have never forgotten it. Please people, think of your pets, if not the possibility of causing an accident AND the trauma of witnessing something tragic happening in front of someone else!

There will always be someone who does something like this. We can't make a new law or get crazy every time something like this happens. We have to look at trends. Otherwise, there will even be laws about just moving around. Wake up,people

There will always be the ignorant jerks that treat these unprotected pets as their very own disposable property.They proclaim their undying love and compassion for their pets and then literally throw them into a situation that will eventually cause their death. It's the dog's fault "cause he's stupid and jumped out"...these are the same people that would leave their own kids in a hot car... We need stronger, better enforced laws to keep all the wonderful,loving animals out of the hands of these demented monsters disguised as responsible pet owner and lover of animals. These people are in need of serious mental help...they can always find a way to justify their cruel actions they dish out to these gentle, unsuspecting pets. A little eye for an eye would really do nicely for these nut-jobs...but since they lack the brains to figure this out.. a fine with "money" out of their pocket,banning them from ever having another animal of any kind, and some mandatory time spent cleaning up animal shelters and other peoples dead animals off the sides of the roads for a year or two would fit the crime...somewhat!

I do not have a truck however I do have a car and in order for my shispoo to join me on road trips she has to be in her car seat. Buckeled in for her safety and mine. People laugh at me and call me crazy. the truth of the matter is I love my pet and if anything happend to her because I was not looking out for her best interest I would not be able to live with myself. I encourage anyone with a Dog to invest in one. Mine was purchased through pet smart dot com. and a portion of the cost goes to ASPCA.

I'm with you chucky! All but one of my six dogs rides to town for burgers and steaks, and to the river for weekly swims. They would never jump out without permission and the one who is not fully trained yet, rides only when going slow on back country roads with no other cars while in training. He's not ready for the real road yet, and rides inside when on paved traffic roads. My dogs love to ride. It is the highlight of thier week. But even I would never put a 6 month old untrained puppy in the back. That is foolish.

To Jennifer, Unfortunately dogs don't have the "freedom to choose" whether or not they go to a "dumb" owner (who thinks it's not only ok to put their pet in the back of an open truck but their 'right').

Luckily for most of your dogs, they've managed to survive your lack of sense and selfishness. They won't be so lucky if you get into an accident... kapisch.

@Chucky--

Did you "train" your dogs what to do in the event of an accident too... like if the truck rolls or flips? Or even just stops short sending them flying over the edge (or the top of the cab as another poster witnessed happening)?!!!

Does any shred of common sense you have fall short of understanding that NO amount of training can protect a dog from a HORRIBLE death if this happens?!!!

Perhaps if you personally witnessed a dog fall out of truck (a restrained dog I might add who's leash apparently broke)--laying in the road SCREAMING in agony with broken hips, legs, etc. Only to be run down by an oncoming car (even as we frantically tried to wave it down) you would feel differently...Or not, judging from your clueless comments.

Yes, it IS "cruel" for a dog to die such a horrible, painful and frightening death because his owner didn't have the "sense" to know better.

Perhaps this statistic from an SPCA worker will shed some light for those of you who just don't 'get it':

“A Massachusetts SPCA worker claimed they saw an average of one dog a week with a spinal fracture or broken neck from falling or jumping out of the back of a truck. The vast majority had to be euthanized.” --http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2009/08/the-dog-days-of-summer/

Just as bad are dogs that are left in the back of hot pickup trucks in the summer in the sun. I have seen them dance foot to foot with their paws burning from the hot metal of the pickup bed and afarid to jump out or get beaten for it. And water...absolutely not. I say let the punishment suit the crime. Put people who do that in the back of a scorching hot metal truckbed and let them get burnt. If they try to get out, beat em.

There are "two kinds of people in the world":

Those with common sense and those WITHOUT. It's pretty clear which group those who put their dogs (or kids) in the back of open trucks fall into!!!

This isn't rocket science people... ANYTHING in the back of an open, moving vehicle can (and DOES) fall out. Restraining your dog with a leash doesn't make it ok either. If you get into any kind of accident (even having to stop short) this can send your dog sailing over the top or side to be strangled and/or dragged to a horrible death as MANY here have already posted seeing... Not to mention what would happen if the truck rolled!!!

Btw, this goes for people who allow their dogs to hang out of open car windows too... Will you be happy when your dog loses it's face to a truck that passes too close? Or goes tumbling out onto the highway when you swerve to avoid a log in the road?

What will it take for you to put aside your own SELFISHNESS for the safety of the dogs you supposedly love?!!

There are "two kinds of people in the world":

Those with common sense and those WITHOUT. It's pretty clear which group those who put their dogs (or kids) in the back of open trucks fall into!!!

This isn't rocket science people... ANYTHING in the back of an open, moving vehicle can (and DOES) fall out. Restraining your dog with a leash doesn't make it ok either. If you get into any kind of accident (even having to stop short) this can send your dog sailing over the top or side to be strangled and/or dragged to a horrible death as MANY here have already posted seeing... Not to mention what would happen if the truck rolled!!!

Btw, this goes for people who allow their dogs to hang out of open car windows too... Will you be happy when your dog loses it's face to a truck that passes too close? Or goes tumbling out onto the highway when you swerve to avoid a log in the road?

What will it take for you to put aside your own SELFISHNESS for the safety of the dogs you supposedly love?!!

Leaving an animal in the back of a pickup truck should be punished with a big fine. Dogs are helpless, they can't hold on, they slip and slide and most of them fall out. Can you imagine laying on the road, badly injured and another vehicle comes and runs over them? How terrible!. I used to live in TX and someone told me ones it's a Cowboy thing. What in the world does that mean? I believe they are confused. Dogs don't belong in the back of a pickup truck, never ever!

Why would you leave your dog in the back of your pickup truck? These dogs don't enjoy it, they are terrified. They can't hold on, and when these idiots brake he/she could be thrown out of the truck. This animal might still be alive, but can't move and will be run over by the next vehicle. How cruel is this. I wish I could do that to these idiots. Dogs can't hold on, they slip and slide and fall out. This should be punished with a big fine and maybe it will stop!

With regard to Chucky's comments on how well his dogs are trained and they never would jump out of his pickup truck - NONSENSE! They are still animals and could react to anything at any time. And, not only is he endangering them by putting them in the back of his truck, he's also endangering them by feeding them ice cream and cheeseburgers! Please, people, get some sense! In Arizona, dogs and people ride in the back of pickup trucks all the time, and several of them have been killed or maimed. If you can't put your dog in your car or truck with a restraint, let him/her stay home where they're safe.

Putting a dog in the back of a pickup is definitely an accident waiting to happen. As a veterinary technician I've seen dogs brought in by their owner who ran over their own dog when the dog fell from the back of their truck while making a turn. There should be laws that protect dogs from this potentially cruel and ignorant practice. I cringe whenever I happen to be behind a pickup carrying a dog in the back. It infuriates me!! If it isn't safe to transport a baby or young child in the back of a pickup, why is it okay to put a dog's life in danger!! So stupid!!

oh, ps... Please change the title to this ARTICLE! Please don't make ALL the REAL ANIMAL LOVERS out here BAN THIS SITE!!!! Like I said, I have been recieving this sites emails for some time now and this article truly is INCORRECT and the heading SUCKS! Pisses me off, because it is NOT cruelty to take your pets for a ride in your truck SO LONG AS THE DOGS HAVE BEEN PROPERLY TRAINDED!

I have been recieving these emails for several years and this one I must comment on. I have 6 dogs. I have a farm in Ohio. I have a pickup. My dogs absolutely are number 1 priority with me, ask any of my friends and they will tell you that I take better can of my animals than I do myself. As for the truck rides, all I have to say is "lets go" or "wanna ride" or "double cheeseburger" or "McDonalds" and my dogs KNOW what is coming. When the tailgate is down, no hesistation to jump straight into my truck. When the tailgate is UP, they DO NOT jump out. I have left my dogs in the back of my truck for at least an hour while I went into "Wallyworld". Everyone that saw my dogs asked me "won't dey jume out"? NO, NOT UNTIL I PUT THE TAILGATE DOWN! I trained my dogs by slowly driving up and down my drive until they understood what "moving" was. Then I drove them slowly around the ridge and then after they grasped the idea again, I drove them into town... NOW they can't live without it. They love ice cream and double cheeseburgers... So, please don't start saying that this is "Cruelty to Animals". The only cruelty here is the owner who didn't take the time to TEACH their animal properly! Don't blame everyone for some.... Sincerely, C.C.

I witnessed this while traveling through Virginia. A dog in the back of a pick-up on the highway not strapped. People's stupidity never ceases to amaze me.

I cannot stand to see dogs in the backs of trucks. Not only do I see animals but people let their children ride in the back, too. I don't understand people.

I do not understand the controversy and vitriol in a lot of these comments. Anyone who thinks the SPCA should not be talking about this issue, but concentrating on "true" cruelty, needs their head examined. Any animal welfare organization must wor on all fronts to prevent cruelty, stupidity, neglect and all the other human issues that cause death, injury, pain and suffering to animals. Why not speak out against dogs in pickup truck beds? It is a 'traditional' activity which endangers not only the welfare of the dogs, but everyone else on the road. A hard stop, a big bump, a piece of gravel kicked up by another vehicle...and you have a bad situation. Why anyone would put kids or a dog in such a risky place beggars the imagination. We rode in the back of the truck when I was a id...on the farm from field to barn...never at speed and never on a paved or public road and never at speeds exceeding about 10 to 15 miles per hour. Still not safe...but better than the folks on this page who zip all over with their dogs. Trained to stay in the truck or not is not the issue...it is all the other risks...stops...veers...bumps...projectiles...not to mention the elements they are subjected to. Maybe this cannot be classified as 'true' cruelty...but stupidity can be just as dangerous to the animal as active cruelty.

I thank God that riding dogs in the back of pick up trucks is ILLEGAL in Florida, not sure if it is just illegal in my county or all over the state, but I have not had to witness this horrible sight in twenty years. I could hardly bear to read the posts here and stopped at the yellow lab bouncing like a rag dog down a five lane highway. Jesus please protect these poor animals from their stupid ass owners!

Last month I found a pure bred sheltie that had fallen from a truck and the whole side of her body had been degloved. It was the most horrible site as it had happened 2 days prior to me finding her. I placed adds every where hoping the owner would come forward. But they never did. The poor old girl has had two broken legs and a broken neck prior that had never been treated. She is now doing well and live out the rest of her life with us free from abuse and pick ups.

It is just wrong. Slow, fast, don't matter. It is wrong. It endangers the pet and others. I wish more folks would call the police on issues like this, including leaving pets in the car during hot months. You know, I see ads all the time to raise money for abused animals, but hardly ever see any of the ads also educating on calling about abuse. People need to be educated. Teach the children as well. Teach people that if they see animals being put in danger to call not just the local animal abuse number, but call the police, because it is wrong! Teach people, even children, to call if they know of an animal that is not being fed, being beat, being thrown in the back of trucks, left to wander on their own. A neighbor, after one of our neihbors moved said " wow.. so glad to see them go.. it really upset me to know they were beating those dogs with pipes and starving them to make them better hunters and watchdogs. And it really upset us to know they were going shopping and leaving that baby sleeping in it's room alone, even if just for 30 minutes or so. ". I am standing there in amazement that this person didn't do anything. I can not believe that anyone would know such abuse was going on and they did not report it. We need more public awareness. Not saying that those ads that show the abused animals being rescued and asking for donations are not helpful, but what WOULD be even more helpful, is to let people know that it is ok to call the police, that they should call the police, and let's try to put an end to animal abuse. AWARENESS... we need more of it!

My husband and I were in Houston, Texas this summer and watched a yellow lab jump from the bed of a pickup truck in front of us onto a 5 lane freeway going 70+ mph. It was the most horrific thing I have ever witnessed and I cannot believe that anyone would EVER put an animal in this situation. Not to mention - this almost caused a severe freeway pileup. It has been a couple of months, and I still see a replay of that dog jumping out and crashing like a rag doll down the freeway. Please, even if you don't care about your animal, have some respect for the other people who have to live with witnessing your torture. My husband has been in a depression ever since the incident happened.

In response to you Jennifer who, in your comment called your dog "dumb" for jumping out of your pickup truck. Clearly, your whole long drawn out,tired ingnorant statement says one thing: There is only one dumb ass here and that would be you! Animal companions are like children and it is the responsibility of their owners to take care of them and NOT place them in any situation that could end in serious injury or death. And, by the way, there is nothing wrong with this country, only the idiots who inhabit it. If you don't like it, take your ignorant, redneck butt somewhere else. And, leave your dogs with someone who will take care of them responsibly. Got it.

My heart goes out to Niña just as everyone else's does. To have lost a pet because of my friends' irrational decision would be devastating. As said before, she should not have been taken out on the streets for the first time without knowing whether or not she would be afraid. What an unnecessary loss. I am completely appalled by most of the comments on this article. Uh oh everyone, I'm from Texas, so I'm most likely just an illiterate imbecile who thinks that animals lives are "disposable" and less significant than my own. You have no idea how wrong that is. There is absolutely nothing I would not do for my dog, or any dogs in my family. They are not pets, but family and we treat them as such. Our dogs love, not like, to go for rides in the back of a truck. Even when the truck is stationary in the driveway, if the tailgate is down, they are in it in hopes that they are about to go for a ride. We only take them down back roads (with the tailgate up) going only about 35mph. We pass many stray dogs and guess what? The dogs stay in the truck. We also check on them several times to make sure they are still there and safe. To make an entire trip without looking back once shows a complete lack of common sense and caring. To force a dog into a truck is one thing, but when a dog willingly jumps in because they can't wait to go for a ride is another. I do not agree with taking dogs on highways and interstates where speeds can reach over 70mph, but if it must be done, proper restraints and precautions should absolutely be taken. And no, this is not just a "southern thing". My husband is from Upper Michigan and says that dogs ride in the back of trucks up there also. When done responsibly, there is nothing wrong with taking a ride with your best friend and both of you having a good time. Yes, accidents happen...everywhere. I could walk out of my back door right now and trip and fall and break my neck. You just can't prevent everything. To tell people to call 911 on me for having a nice, slow drive with my dog because some fools took a poor 6 month old puppy on her first time ride with no training or experience is ridiculous. There are definitely instances where authorities should be notified, but just because a dog is in the back of a truck does not necessarily mean that they are being neglected.

My heart goes out to Niña just as everyone else's does. To have lost a pet because of my friends' irrational decision would be devastating. As said before, she should not have been taken out on the streets for the first time without knowing whether or not she would be afraid. What an unnecessary loss. I am completely appalled by most of the comments on this article. Uh oh everyone, I'm from Texas, so I'm most likely just an illiterate imbecile who thinks that animals lives are "disposable" and less significant than my own. You have no idea how wrong that is. There is absolutely nothing I would not do for my dog, or any dogs in my family. They are not pets, but family and we treat them as such. Our dogs love, not like, to go for rides in the back of a truck. Even when the truck is stationary in the driveway, if the tailgate is down, they are in it in hopes that they are about to go for a ride. We only take them down back roads (with the tailgate up) going only about 35mph. We pass many stray dogs and guess what? The dogs stay in the truck. We also check on them several times to make sure they are still there and safe. To make an entire trip without looking back once shows a complete lack of common sense and caring. To force a dog into a truck is one thing, but when a dog willingly jumps in because they can't wait to go for a ride is another. I do not agree with taking dogs on highways and interstates where speeds can reach over 70mph, but if it must be done, proper restraints and precautions should absolutely be taken. And no, this is not just a "southern thing". My husband is from Upper Michigan and says that dogs ride in the back of trucks up there also. When done responsibly, there is nothing wrong with taking a ride with your best friend and both of you having a good time. Yes, accidents happen...everywhere. I could walk out of my back door right now and trip and fall and break my neck. You just can't prevent everything. To tell people to call 911 on me or my family for having a nice, slow drive with our dogs because some fools took a poor 6 month old puppy on her first time ride with no training or experience is ridiculous. There are definitely instances where authorities should be notified, but just because a dog is in the back of a truck does not necessarily mean that it is being neglected.

A dog jumping out of the back of a pickup is one thing. But a couple years ago I was stopped at a red light and as I sat watching traffic go by on the green light, when all of a sudden a pickup truck goes by with a german shepard tethered to a spot inside the truck bed and the dog was running on its back tip toes trying to keep up ! I have never felt so helpless as I did that day. I was stuck in traffic, had no cell phone and was freaking out ! NOTHING I COULD DO !!!! Please don't let your animals or children run freely in the bed of any truck but when you tether them make sure the restraining item is not long enough to allow them to exit any part of their bodies beyond the side rails. I still have nightmares about that German Shepard and often wonder if its life was spared !!!!

While it is illegal in Massachusetts, there are plenty of idiots who restrain dogs by the neck! How would they like to be tetherballs, swinging from their necks? Also, a word about training: It is simple physics to see that the best trained animal can STILL be thrown out of a truck bed due to accidents, road conditions, a swerve to avoid something, etc. That dog, when airborne, can fly into a windshied and cause other accidents. I know, IT WON"T HAPPEN TO YOU: Please don't be SO selfish at to endanger the lives of other people as well as your poor dog.

I completely egdisagree with yet another ordinance or regulation. I have known plenty of owners who trained their dogs to stay in the back of the pickups. Dogs can be trained to control their natural urges of chasing a rabbit from the back of the truck. I would say instead punish those to the fullest extent when the dog wasn't trained properly and jumped out rather than punishing the innocent and responsible. I know that when these accidents happen it is a tragedy...but I think protecting freedom comes first.

I am convinced that most humans are too stupid to have children or animals. Driving a dog around in the back of a truck is a recipe for disaster. Unfortunately, it's the dog who gets hurt and not the dumbass driver. A friend saw a Lab jump out of the back of a speeding truck and get run over by the car behind him. She will never forget this. This should be a criminal offense.

HELLO OUT THERE IN ANY STATE PLEACE SECURE YOUR DOGS IF YOU PUT THEM IN THE BACK OF A PICK UP TRUCK I AM A PASSANGER BUS DRIVER I AM ALWAYS IN THE HIGHEWAY I SEE THIS POOR ANIMALS LOOSE IN THE BACK I WILL NEVER FORGET ONE TIME 2 BIG BEAUTIFUL PIDBULLS GOING TO ONE SIDE TO THE OTHER I WAS BEHIND THE TRUCK I DECIDE TO BACK OFF I HAD A FEELING SOMETHING WILL HAPPEN I WENT DOWN TO PICK UP SOME PASSANGER IN A SMALL TOWN WHEN I PICK UP AGAIN ON THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 5 MILES DOWN THE ONE DOG WAS ON A RIGHT SIDE DEATH SOMEBODY DRUG THE DEATH ANIMAL OUT OF THE ROAD NEXT FEW MILES I SAW THE SECOND DOG ON THE LEFT LANE OUT OF THE ROAD DEATH WHAT A WASTE OF THIS ANIMALS WHY BECAUSE OF THE OWNERS IF YOU OWN A DOG PUT HIM IN A LEASH OR TIDE THEM SHOET ROPE NOT LIKE ONE DRIVER TO BIG OF A ROPE THE PICK UP TRUCK THE DOG GOT TRHOW OUT ON THE SIDE OF THE PICK UP TRUCK AND WAS CHOCKING I HONK AT THE MAN BUT HE NEVER PAY ATTENTION THE DOG GOT HANG OF TO BIG OF A ROPE YOU LOVED AND CARE FOR YOUR DOG DONT DO THIS FOOLISH THINGS JUST TO SHOE YOU A MACHO MAN SOME OWNERS THEY HAVE SECURE CAGES FOR THERE ANIMALS DO THE SAME I DONT WANT TO KEEP DRIVING AND SEE WHAT I SEE IN THE ROAD

PLEASE STOP AND REALLY REALLY THINK OF THE DANGERS THAT CAN HAPPEN TO THE ANIMALS RIDING IN AN OPENED VEHICLE! THOUGH "THEY' LIKE IT,"THEY" DON'T HAVE THE CAPABILITY TO UNDERSTAND THE DANGERS! PLEASE USE THE SAME COMMON SENSE YOU WOULD HOPEFULLY USE ON A CHILD!!!

I've only once had a problem with a dog jumping out of my pick-up and both times the dumb dog was restrained in the middle of the truck (not a small truck or flat bed truck, yur basic chevy type) and managed to undo himself and jump out. neither times he was hurt thankfully (BIG dog, didn't have a kennel for his size and this was just getting him to our house). but the rest of my dogs (of various herding breeds) never even thought about it. i taught them by restraining them as older puppies and they learned to stay. everyone has a right to do what they want, this IS NOT a form of cruelty unless the driving is done under the influence of drugs/alcohol or maliciously driving with intent of hurting the dog. some people like ranchers prefer to do things the old fashioned way, some people need to have the smarts to have an idea of "this dog will for the most part be okay for a short trip in the truck, but this dog should probably be kenneled cause he wont stay". if the state decides to carry out a law, then so be it, if other dont, then so be it. this is america and we're all given the freedom we have. some things are set in stone wrong and right and there are other things like this debate that can be seen in different situations and scenarios when it's mostly opinion thats the issue. YES dogs have a chance of jumping out, YES dogs can also be smart enough to NOT jump out. just like there's people who are safe drivers and others who are reckless drivers. children who are safe and others who take risks by seeing if they can make wings to fly off a rooftop. our dogs are the same way, some know the difference to stay and some don't. yes they all have the basic animal instinct but they're not always going to just jump after it, some dogs will stay and just bark at whatever it is. i'm not ignorant, i've seen the cases of dogs jumping out of cars having experience in seeing it. i clicked on this link thinking it was going to be more informational. this has minimal information of keeping a dog safe, rather as another person said, it feels like a bashing "fear mongering" artcle. this is what i hate about our country. people who are given the opportunity like this to have a voice for pet community, don't give the article as an opportunity to educate for both sides of a readers opinion. saying tethering is an okay way of doing it, but still not safe as a dog can get hung up. but a travel cage or carrier that is tied down to the vehicle is the best method of transporation. while giving the cons of having a loose dog but saying that if you do travel with a loose dog, be careful of how you drive and of your surroundings and if at all possible, do it mainly on private property where it's not a potential hazard for other drivers. not confuse or put fear into new or potential dog owners! i would like to see a re write of this article giving actual INFORMATION on the safety/hazards of dogs riding loose in the back of trucks with minor opinion incorporated instead of a major opinion and less information. the information of the law articles was great and opinion does matter, just not to the point where it sounds like the author is jamming their opinions forcefully down their readers throats.

Wow, for those who posted comments saying the article is "fear mongering," a country "tradition"... you're simple minded and ignorant. Too bad you weren't put in the back of a pickup, unrestrained, when you were 2 yr old, and the driver took a hard left...plop, plop, smoosh, smoosh, one less idiot in the world. :-)

My dogs loved travelling in the back of my truck and never in 17 years fell out or tried to get out while the truck was on the road.

Have any of you people ever had a dog? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdj67XknFrM

Travelling with your dog in the back of your ute (Australian slang for a pickup truck) is a great Australian tradition.

Agreeing with NortonSmitty and Randi. I'm sorry, but between this and some other subjects you'd tried lately, I'm afraid you are doing nothing but fear-mongering and I am no longer with a clear mind able to support this group. I'll keep supporting animals though, but not the people that profit from fear-mongering.

I have seen a beautiful collie fall right out of a truck as he was turning-driving slowly, in an area neighborhood. The dog rolled in the street, not being able to get himself up, obviously hurt and perhaps broken/fractured bones. If anyone cannot understand how this could NOT happen because their dog is trained (?) or is just used to it, they should have their head examined. Why would you want to "see" if the dog can stay safe in a ride like this? People who think this is not a problem.....you do not deserve to have a pet.

It doesn't surprise me that this planet has SO MANY stupid damn people! W.F are people thinking when they put a dog in the back of a truck? With friends like those she doesn't need enimies. It IS animal abuse because not only do you have an unrestrained dog, but if there is an accident the dog is going to be killed. It's almost just as bad at the morons who do not restrain theor dogs IN the cars. They let them sit in their lap, hang out the window or sit in the back part, like in a mini-van. The bottom line, if you are not going to properyly care for your pet - DON'T HAVE ONE!

It doesn't surprise me that this planet has SO MANY stupid damn people! W.F are people thinking when they put a dog in the back of a truck? With friends like those she doesn't need enimies. It IS animal abuse because not only do you have an unrestrained dog, but if there is an accident the dog is going to be killed. It's almost just as bad at the morons who do not restrain theor dogs IN the cars. They let them sit in their lap, hang out the window or sit in the back part, like in a mini-van. The bottom line, if you are not going to properyly care for your pet - DON'T HAVE ONE!

Every time I am driving down the highway and I see this I am terrifed that something is going to happen that will cause the dog to end up ON the highway and not only the dog but the humans nearby could possibly be killed. Seriously, I prefer dogs over people, but maybe the folks who don't seem to think that riding in the bed of a truck is dangerous should consider that they are endangering more lives than their pet.

Randi and NortonSmitty are Douchebags!!!!!!!!

Anybody who puts there Dog in the back of a pick up truck is careless,And has no common sense.Please value your pets.They are Gods children also.

CRUELTY

I think it should be illegal,when I was young my dad left my dog in the back of the boat on the way home.My dog jumped out and was killed instantly.I begged my dad to let my dog ride in the backseat of the car and he refused.Then I had to go find my dog with my older sister and bury her myself.I think a law should be passed in all states that childeren or dogs are not allow to ride in the back of any open vehicle.Children and animals rely on us to protect themand take care of them.If owners of pets can't be responsible then they don't need a pet.

I agree with NortonSmitty. You all are a sorry bunch. People think putting dogs in the back of a truck is animal abuse, what's abusive to me is having a dog collared, chained, and caged 24 hours a day because you're too afraid to let dogs be dogs. Let you're dogs live a little, let them get their energy out, let them hone their instincts, and they won't be jumping out of anything they're not supposed to. People act like dogs are unable to survive without be pampered like week old children, give me a break. You want to know the problem with dogs these days... look in the mirror.

Also, the floor of the bed in a pickup gets very hot for the dog's feet or their body when they are tethered closly to the floor or sides. Thankfully we have laws against pets being transported without protrective restraint in Ca.

You know, I would like to rephrase my earlier comment. I think you are pandering to apartment dwelling animal illiterates that really don't understand animals or much of life either. You all are a pretty sorry bunch.

Truly upsetting when I see a dog in the back of a pickup...whether restrained somehow or not. There is so much potential danger lurking for that animal either way. Do these dog owners cherish their dogs...I think not. Should be against the law in every state.

Profound point that even a perfectly trained dog reacts impulsively to stimuli. Not to mention debris flying off highways could injure an animal in an open space, back of truck.

It is against the law here in Mariposa County, California but it is obviously NEVER enforced as I see the Sheriffs and CHP pass trucks EVERYDAY with loose dogs in the back. One rock-hauling guy drives a big truck with a trailer attached and I once saw him pass at least twenty cars in the Merced River Canyon with his little brown dog bouncing around in the pickup bed. Lately I haven't seen the dog with him, hmmmm.

90% of pickup trucks are crew cabs of full back seats. There is no reason for a dog to ride in the bed of a truck tethered or not. They have no protection from the elements. I've seen dogs tethered on flatbed trucks. Maybe they won't fall out or over, the collar would certainly break their neck should an incident happen. Sad, it is. It should be illegal in all states with a hefty fine and possible removal of the dog from the owner on second offence.

I've ALWAYS been against this type of BAD HABIT, it has never been safe.

I believe that a law was passed some years ago in OR w/a $500.00 fine to anyone guilty of having a dog in the back of a p/u unless it is in a secured crate or securely tethered w/harness & leash(not by collar)in the truck bed. It is absolutely unacceptable, unsafe & irresponsible to let your dog ride in the truck bed. You dog is your four legged child, treat him/her w/the same care & respect!

In response to your comment Ricky - you, your siblings and your dog(s) were just fortunate. You say you do not allow your children or dogs to ride in the back of a pickup as they would most liley jump out! Would that not be a contradiction to the t of your comment? Come on, all of you who think there should not be laws against this, wise up here. Some are not so fortunate and have been seriously injured or killed. If an adult chooses to take the risk of riding in the back of pickup trucks, then that is their choice. However, children and animals should not be placed in a dangerous situation. It is the parent/guardian's responsibility to protect those that cannot always protect themselves from harm. If adults are too ignorant or clueless to realize the dangers, then there must be laws in place to protect them.

I am pushing 60 and have been a dog lover and supporter of the ASPCA my entire life. I am afraid I will no longer be able to do so. With all of the serious problems of abuse in this world, animal and human, getting worked up over, having a dog go for a ride in the back of a pickup should not be hyped to raise the vitriol displayed on this page. Similar articles I've seen since receiving your newsletter have caused me to question your motives for raising petty issues to the level of high drama. Something to write about? Fundraising? I don't know. But I have been taking my well trained dogs into town in the back of a truck my whole life without incident. It is one of the high points of their existence, and mine too. The people who threw someone elses dog into the back of a truck for the first time and hit the highway are idiots who should be dealt with accordingly. But to tell your members to call the police on me when I am not putting my beloved dogs in any more danger than I am in on the highway crosses the line. Please remove my name from your newsletter and fundraising list. If you ever get back to your original mission of helping truly abused animals, get back to me. Good luck eith that.

WE ARE IN 2011 AND ARE STILL TRYING TO GET COMMONSENSE LAWS PASSED WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE TODAY, FROM THE HIGHER UPS TO THE LOWEST OF THE LOWS. ALL WE NEED IS COMMONSENSE AND JUST COMMON RESPECT.LAWS TODAY PROTECT THE WONG PEOPLE AND ANIMALS (WHO ARE MORE HUMAN THEN SOME)KEY WORDS FOR TODAY IS: "JUST THINK"

This is about as sensitive a topic as spay and neuter! You just can not convince some people! I hate to see dogs in the back of a truck - period. Accidents happen. What about the 100 degree weather? On a ranch, maybe - on the highway or in town, no. Even on the ranch, the dogs get hurt. My granddad had dogs but they rode in the cab and when he got out so did the dog. The dog knew his job and he did it very well. If we kids didn't ride in the back of the truck, the dog wasn't either.

Jumping out of windows or truck beds isn't the only hazard to pets or kids. Have you ever had a rock hit yor windshield so hard it cracked? Such a projectile could mean instant death for your precious ones.

I've always had a problem with this and also with dogs hanging out the windows,most people would not let their child do this Why let your dog??I have seen dogs jump out of car windows while their owner is driving.Not so healthy for the poor Dog.

I belive that unless you have took your dog in small trips around your yard before taking him on the road then he/she would not jump out but make sure he is trained no to jump out.

this one is for bubba! i pray for you. so bubba is riding with his best friend ever.he is enjoying his ride just like he always has for hundreds of times.bubba is a dog,he doesn't know.bubba's best friend is driving along doing the speed limit(35) just like they always do.35? bubba is a dog,he doesn't know.bubba's best friend looks at a dog being walked down the sidewalk,as he turns back to where he should be looking,the car in front of him has stopped.what does bubba's best friend do? so many scenarios? bubba doesn't know,he's a dog.slam on the brakes? swerve? we all know what happens when humans slam through the windshield. what about dogs through the rear window of a pickup? bubba doesn't know. i witnessed the swerve.i was behind the pickup with bubba in the back! you know,the trained dog that would not jump out? what about thrown out! bubba's best friend! instead of the pickup slamming on his brakes and possibly rearending the vehicle in front of him. he swerves to the right,(2 lanes).bubba's feat leave the bed of the truck.he looks down at his feet in the air,he doesn't know.as the truck turns so quickly,bubba is now airborn! he looks up at his best friend,confused,scared to death! he doesn't know. all he knows is that his best friend is leaving him? the truck continues right around the vehicle.doesn't have a clue that his supposidly best friend is not in the back.bubba hits the pavement hard.i'm already stopping to help bubba! but bubba rolls about 2 or 3 times and gets up! i'm like omg! he's alright!bubba doesn't know,he's a dog.all he knows is that his best friend is leaving him? bubba doesn't know. so bubba takes off running after his best friend?around the left side of the stopped vehicle,i am now stopped behind it also.the next uncomming vehicle meets bubba head on! not my dog,but for the next few days he was,in my nightmares. i cryed,bubba's best friend did not! bubba died because his best friend trained him not to jump out? bubba did not know. bubba was a best friend! secure your best friends! they don't know.

Not only can they jump out and be hurt, but their poor paws must be singed by the heat on the metal of the truck! Just think how hot that is...even sitting inside a hot vehicle that isn't metal can be awful! You have to be a real moron to risk your pet this way!

Comments against dogs riding in truck beds don't change things. Why doesn't ASPCA begin a campaign to make it illegal in all 50 states? Get a movement going to contact our politicians for legislation.

if u train ur dog from the time they are puppies to ride in the back of a truck no they wont jump out my dog bubba could sit in front wal mart with 1600 ppl walkin right by him an not jump out anyone that thinks it should be illegal should be shot the joy my dogs gt from riding ina truck bed is something i would never take awy its like takin my daughters favorite toy away because someone sonewhere accidentally hurt themselves the article says it all the dog had nevr been in a truck bed before an there for should not have been alone in the bed, however to say that all dogs are the same is not only asinine but foolish and idiosyncratic border line communist an plain not fair to those who have taken time to properly work with our animals to ride in vehicles of any kind especially truck beds

On the way to Officers' Training School in Alabama, I was on I-75 heading north in FL and observed a truckload of migrant workers with their cage-like trailer pulled behind their truck with their 2 rottweilers standing up against the side as they were packed inside like equipment. They were both standing up so stiff and frightened, couldn't even sit down, and were squashed between mowers and other equipment. I was so outraged. I had no municipality to call....so I called FHP, gave their northbound course and present location. I stayed behind them for another 45 min before I had to turn off the highway to go toward Alabama. No one ever showed up, but had ample opportunity. Sorry Ricky (from September 23)....sometimes the authorities need to step in and manage people who just refuse to respect common decency. I'm all for my right to privacy etc but there need to be measures law enforcement can take to stop the cruelty and stupidity. It is illegal in Miami-Dade, where I grew up, and there is no way it can be managed. Many there have no reverence for rules they can't read/understand, since they do not speak the language....not that this would stop people anyway. English speaking Americans are every bit as guilty. Basic decency seems to be nonexistent, along with manners and common sense. Everyone needs to get involved and do something. I would be willing to give the authorities more latitude if they would actually be able to do something about this, and actually want to get involved!

I can't believe we even have to discuss this! Wake up people and use your BRAIN.Putting any pet loose in a pickup truck or leaving it inside when it is hot is just plain ANIMAL ABUSE and STUPIDITY!! At some point people are going to have to be held responsible for their ignorance and irresponsibility. Until that happens more animals will die needlessly at the hands of the people that are suppose to keep them safe. INEXCUSABLE!!!!

Seeing things like this always make me sick, to be sharing the human race with such uncaring or thoughtless "people". However, it would be nice (and helpful) if there could be selected drives where we can help petition injustaces to to animals so laws might be passed in all states. Please consider this in future articles, and thanks for listening.

Putting a dog behind a pick up truck is like putting your 2 year old kid behind the pick up truck, they would still jump off at any time no matter how many times you've told them not to. Please don't do it -.-

IF PEOPLE WOULD JUST OPEN UP THERE EYES CLEAN OUT THERE EARS OUT . PUTTING ANY LIVE THING INTHE BACK OF TRUCK IS JUST PROOFS THEY DON'T NEED KIDS OR ANIAMLS. I DON'T CARE IF THE ANIAMAL IS WE TIED DOWNED TO THE TRUCK THAT DOG IFIS STILL GETTING MEESED UP. LIKES A EGG. I HAVE TAKE CARE OF TO MANY DOGS INTHE FIELD AND SEN THE PT BT HEILCOPTOR. THE DOG PASSES ALL THE DRIVER WANT IS PUPPY IN THE BACK.NOT GOOD

This type of human ignorance has angered me for YEARS. I have been witness 3 times to dogs bailing out of truck beds and none were happy endings. ALL states should have laws against this...is only common sense!

I, too, live in redneck country where they think nothing of throwing the "disposable" dog in the back of the truck and flying down the highway. Oh, if you're really cool, and you have one those big silver tool boxes across the back of the bed of the truck, then make sure you put the dog up there! It seems the higher you put the dog and it stays while you drive, the cooler you AND the dog are! PEOPLE ARE SICK!!! Thank God for the people who will speak up for the helpless dogs who are treated with such cruelty. They cannot speak for themselves...some one has to!!!! For those of you who have lost a dog/pet this way, how did you feel after it happened?? Did you wish you had not put the dog there? Just don't do it..don't take the chance!

Yes we we must make laws to protect the stupid ones. And everyone else gets to lose some more of their freedom. Sad Indeed.

I live on a farm and our aussie shepherds have always been trained to ride in the back of the truck to keep the cows at bay around feeding time so we won't be trampled while taking care of our animals. If we go anywhere other than the horse and cow pastures with them in the back, we have a light chain leash that connects to a tie down in the bed and it is long enough for them to stand up but not enough for them to completely reach the sides. It always depends on the measure of safety you use for your family members and in our case valuable farm hands and best friends. Not all people who let their dogs ride in the back of the truck are evil people. Some of them, like my family, make sure the dog feels comfortable and is safely secure before the truck tires ever hit the road. It just depends on the owner driving the truck to say if what they have done is cruelty or perfectly safe.

I see that most people tie down the garbage in the bed of their truck, yet they allow their so called pet to fly down the street completely unrestrained. It only requires a little common sense and a little love for your pet!

I have seen dogs in the back of pickup trucks many times & it has always bothered me. Why is a dog's life less important than a human's? It is not safe for people or animals to ride in an open truck bed. There should be laws to prohibit this so no more animals get hurt or killed.

Ricky, that would be nice, but if that were the case, we wouldn't be having this conversation, would we?

I cannot imagine throwing a dog in the back of a pickup. Of course, it has been illegal for many years here in CA. I used to drive with my windows open before I got my dogs. My husband was driving and I had my 7month old beagle on my lap. He had a leash on. I relaxed for what must have been ONE second and he jumped out the window at 40 mpr. I immediately threw the leash out as I was afraid the leash would get caught somehow. It probably looked like I threw him out. I was so horrified and terrified that he jumped. We stopped immediately and got him. He had a small cut on the inside of his leg and lotsa road rash! Needless to say, I NEVER opened ANY of my windows in the car again.

Ricky, that would be nice, but if that were the case, we wouldn't be having this converstaion now, would we?????

I now live in a small town in Texas and I see this phenomenon all the time. I want to yell at the driver, or try to snatch the dog at the next stop light, but instead I feel very helpless. I don't know if this is a "Southern thing" that dogs are treated like disposable commodity. I came from Wisconsin where I never saw this. There are also lots of dogs dumped at the side of the road. I would know, I rescued one. What does it take to change the "Southern" mindset when it comes to dogs?

I live in Colorado and see dogs in the back of pick up trucks in all kinds of weather often going at high rates of speed.IT NEEDS TO BE MADE ILLEGAL TO TRANSPORT DOGS IN THE BACK OF TRUCKS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD

It is cruel to put a dog in the back of a pick up truck. I've heard of stories where the precious dog was teathered and fell out and was hung to death. just don't do it.

It is cruel to put a dog in the back of a pick up truck. I've heard of stories where the precious dog was teathered and fell out and was hung to death. just don't do it.

It is cruel to put a dog in the back of a pick up truck. I've heard of stories where the precious dog was teathered and fell out and was hung to death. just don't do it.

What a senseless death. Where we live in New Mexico, ranchers are the worst of the lot. Many a dog in this area has come out of the beds of trucks on the interstate. Only an idiotic, irresponsible person would put their dog in the bed of a truck unrestrained. We also see idiots driving around here with their dogs in the bed of the truck in 90 - 100 + degree heat of the summer. I would like to take those people, strip them down to their underwear and ride them around in the bed of their truck for 4 or 5 hours and see how they like it. America, it seems, is not lacking of idiots.

If you absolutely must put your pet in an open truck bed then you need to put a (secured!!!) kennel that he cannot escape from in to transport him. I've seen farm dogs riding on pickup beds without any sides but no matter how well trained your dog is, he can fall off or decide to jump while the vehicle is moving. ANYONE who puts an animal in the open bed should be fined and their dog taken away from them. As far as your statement about calling the police about a kid in the pickup bed or even running around in the backseat of a vehicle. I saw a woman toss her toddler in the backseat and not buckle her in so she was running back and forth across the backseat! Since I didn't have the local police number I called 911 and had them transfer me to the police station. I told them exactly where she was, description of the vehicle along with license tag and they told me that "unless a policeman witnesses this personally they couldn't do a thing!" They said that "someone might make such a report falsely accusing the driver" to get even or out of spite. I couldn't believe they couldn't send someone who was in the area to "observe" this personally!! Let me report it on a 911 call and they would probably fine me!!

This should be outlawed in EVERY state...every country for that matter and offenders should get a very stiff citation. These poor animals are clueless of the danger that awaits them while in the back of an open pick-up truck. If a person cannot find it in their heart to let their dog ride in the cab with them, then either 1) get a crate big enough for the dog, secure the crate in the back of the truck so if the driver were to run over a bump or come to a sudden stop the crate will not fly out of or slide around the truck. 2) if a person is not willing to spend the money on a safe crate, then LEAVE YOUR DOG AT HOME!!! I do not care how well trained the dog is, accidents DO happen. Be smart, be loving and MOST IMPORTANTLY, BE RESPONSIBLE!!

Yesterday I witnessed a very scared older dog in the back of a truck without sides. I was appauled that any human can do the to another mammal. People should have a license to own animals. I love animals with all my heart and they are part of our family, not just something you throw in the back of a truck. I also have seens kids in the back of trucks as well. Not very intellegent.

My exboyfriend were driving in his truck, this man ended up being my abuser. He didn't like my water spaniel Suki so he tied him by his leash in the back of the truck.Suki jumped out and was dragged and had scraped up his paws pretty bad and almost lost consciousness. I chose my dog over a woman beater.

What a shame that given a voice the animals would have more intelligence than their owners

I would never put my dogs at risk in the bed of a pick up truck. I see it all the time in Texas and I just want to bop the owners, what are they thinking!!

I have always been against dogs (or other animals) riding in the back of a pick up truck. I brought my children up from the time they wre very young to be part of the "Puppy Patrol" If we saw a dog that was untethered in the back of a truck, we came home and called the local police. Later, when cell phones were common, we called and reported the license number of the vehicle, the location that we swaw it, and the direction it was heading. At times, if the vehicle was parked, I approached the person, always a male, and tried to nicely educate him about the dangers. I don't do this anymore for fear of "road rage". A few years ago, Rhode Island made a law that any dog in the back of a pick up truck was required to have a 3 point tether. Great. BUT IT IS NOT ENFORCED. Although I do not see as many dogs transported this way anymore, I still see them. Just think of the repercussions if a truck on an interstate highway has to stop short and the dog flies out. Even if you don't like dogs, think of the human lives which might be sacrificed because of someone's irresponsibility.

Ricky , You call people who think we need a law bleeding hearts and and all we need is to use common sense. First I'll start by calling your followers idiots. There isn't much common - have you looked around lately - Don't think so.

I know that there a lot of stupid people out there that shouldn't have dogs or ANY animals or kids for that matter, but I personally want to have the right to put my dog in the back of a truck. There is a proper way of doing so with restraints for training and with supervision. I have done it for over 20 YEARS without any harm to my babies. We don't need more laws, government already has too much of a say so in what we do. I believe that we need to be accountable for harm done in our choices. I'm tired of being policed in EVERY move I make because stupid people cant think properly.

Would like TEXAS to ban it

While visiting Roswell, NM i had seen a dog on top of the Cab of a truck standing, i flagged down a cop and told him and he just said they do that alot around here and it was not a problem.

I have always thought it a terrible practice to put dogs in the back of an open pick-up truck. It wouldn't do any good to call the local police or sheriff's department where I live in Polk County, Fl., they would laugh at me. This is redneck country and everyone seems to drive a pick-up and has a dog (usually a pit bull) loose in the back. I have noticed that men with a lower intellect all seem to have pit bulls, they appear to be a status symbol. There should be a law against dogs being allowed in the back of pick-up trucks, but it seems that the Government agencies involved in passing laws aren't interested in animal safety. How about children riding in the back of pick-up trucks? Nobody puts a stop to that, either.

It is just a macho thing to do and endangers the pet and all of the other drivers because of the distraction of seeing and concern about the dogs safety. In a fast stop that dog is traveling at 50 miles per hour into the rear of the truck cab. If that isn't enough to kill him, his injury will cause him to panic and leap into traffic, a sure plunge to death

I remember hearing about a set of ropes that are placed onto the truck in the back to prevent dogs from jumping out. I also hate the fact many pet owners allow their dogs to jump into the driver's seat and look out the window. Anything could happen that's why I believe it is wise to use selt restriants on all animals inside or outside the vehicle. Also many do not know what dangers of objects that could impair a dogs or animals vision when leaning out of a vehicle too.

Washington State Troopers will pull you over for not having your pet on a leash in the back of a Pick up truck. I 4 1 am glad this state is doing that, we have alot of pets & plenty of lakes/trails/beaches for owners to take the pets to-

i dont think dogs should ride in the back of teh truck or pickup they could jump out and get hit

If you put your dog in your truck bed, PLEASE,PLEASE restrain it PROPERLY. As a young child I saw a young pup dragged behind a truck when the driver pulled away from a red light with the dog looking over the back of the truck with it's front paws up on the tailgate. I can still hear the yelping in my mind. The dog had fur burned off from friction with the street. It was one of the sadist things I've ever witnessed. I am sure you love your dog. Take the time to learn how to keep it safe and take the time, every time, to secure it properly.

BROUGHT YOU BY ARYAN GRAPHICS DESIGNS LET IT BE KNOW THAT WE WHITE SUPREMACISTS ARE IN FULL ARE IN FULL SYMPATHY WITH THE ASPCA AND ARE YEARLY DONORS TO THIS ORGANIZATION. THE INHUMANITY OF SOME HUMANS OF THIS WORLD TO DO THE THINGS THEY DO TO ANIMALS IS BEYOND COMPREHENSION. ARYAN GRAPHICS DESIGNS PRO WHITE GRAPHIC DESIGN COMPANY

I personally do not like transporting my dogs in the back of a pick up truck. I have done it once because we had absolutely no room in the cab and I just watched her the entire time. Personally, I think it should be illegal to transport children under the age of 12 and animals without an adult over 18y/o in the back of the truck as well. Children under the age of 12 should be in the cab no matter what.

would u let ur toddler or young child ride in the back of an open bed truck??

would u let ur toddler or young child ride in the back of an open bed truck??

would u let ur toddler or young child ride in the back of an open bed truck??

if you think government and laws shouldn't get involved in this do you also think there should be no speed limits? Maybe a sign saying "travel at a safe speed for you" and leave it at that?There must be laws because not everyone has common sense.

I hope someone passes a law against pets riding in open pick up truck beds, I would never do that to my dog. I think its horrible!

I hope Georgia's Officers wouldn't think i am crazy should i call,because i see here in the Redneck State all the time. From now on i will write the tag numbers down and i will call local law enforcement and see whats is going to happen.All States need more Laws to protect innocent Animals!!!!!!!!

I have seen a dog fly out of a car window spinning until he hit the ground. Fortunately he landed on the sidewalk and not in a road lane to be run over. I do not agree with letting dogs ride in the back of open pick up trucks nor in cars with wide open windows. If you love your pet you will protect it and not try to look like a hotshot driver.

I'm with Ricky!! Back in the 50's & 60's we rode in the back of pickups and survived. The drivers in those times never had drivers education in school. Ricky has it right....bleeding hearts with no common sense. I wonder how many of these people who want more laws support the same group that wants smaller government.

hold the driver responisble for accidents caused by a dog riding in the back of a truck and vet bills if a witness takes dog to vet then thats the only way to stop them get them where it hurts

Years ago, while driving on hwy. 121 in the Ft. Worth area I watched in horror as a young, beautiful sheperd jumped from the back of a truck in to heavy rush hour traffic. The dog was run over and crushed and I will always be haunted by the image of the dog bobbing his head back and forth while he died. After that I fell into the habit of warning drivers of pick up trucks of the dangers of letting thier dog roam freely in the back. On one occassion the man replied " if he's stupid enough to jump then he deserves to get hit". It was all I could do to keep from punching him in the mouth. People who are stupid enough to let thier dog ride untied in the back of thier trucks should be cited, heavily fined and have thier pet taken away from them.

my dog always rides inside and harnessed in best way to get a law passed is to hold the driver of the truck responsible for any accidents caused by a dog riding in the back and vet bills for the dog. and points on the licence of the driver . that will stop people from putting dogs in the back

Nice thoughts, but let's be serious. The police/humane society cannot keep up with all the animal-related complaints they receive each day. Minutes after reading this article I saw a pickup with two dogs--a lab and a GSD--in the back...the lab had his front paws on the side and was hanging his head over. An accident waiting to happen. As a vet tech I see the results of this stupidity all the time. Sadly, idiots are good for our business.

I think its ironic that this question was on my Facebook message board. We were talking about this yesterday after seeing a black lab in the back of a truck in front of me. While the dog was having a grand time back there, all I was thinking was if that truck hit a big dip in the road or had to stop suddenly, that poor dog would fly out in a second. I have four dogs (including a black lab) and would never risk injury to them by putting them in the bed of my truck. I guess the question is.....how much do you love and regard your animal?

I think it's just awful that anyone would even think to put their pet in such danger. There should be a law everywhere about putting your pets in an unsafe state. If you love your animal, then please take care of them in the right way. They take care of you, why not take care of them?

As a Humane Law Enforcement Officer in New York State, I would love to see this at a state law level as everyone it seems up here does it. Scott is right though if we all work together and start at the bottom at-least its a start. My partner and I were just talking about this the other day and want to pass it in our local area.

I'm retired from previously working for a local veterinarian for 16 years. I have witnessed many dogs injuries from falling or jumping out of the back of pickup trucks. It was not a pretty site, believe me. Many suffered road burn that literally tore their hide off, not to mention bones shattered in several places..among internal injuries. Most HAD to be euthanized. If I could tell people to PLEASE stop letting their dogs ride in the back of their trucks and that would solve the problem... But unfortunately, most don't listen. Not only is it extremely dangerous for the animal, it's also extremely dangerous for the other drivers in traffic!! And PLEASE don't TIE the dog in the back of a truck unless you want to see your dog HANG itself!!! :(

PLease help pass the law

Our dog never goes in the car w/o being in his harness in the back seat. There is just enough for him to move around in the back but not enough to come forward or go out a window. We don't want our "boy" to become a flying object in the event of sudden braking. To us, it's common sense. But then, common sense ain't so common. And yes, we cringe at the sight of all the careless, thoughtless people who leave their animals loose in the back of a truck fall out and to suffer in hot/cold/wet weather.

Texas actually DOES have a law against having dogs unrestrained in an open vehicle. It is an "unsecured load" law. Problem is, hardly anyone knows about it, and many in law enforcement aren't aware that the unsecured load law can (and should) apply to animals.

You know what...I read all the comments/opinions about riding dogs around in the backs of pickup, and those concerning riding children around in the beds of pickups, as well. And you know...alittle common sense is a good thing...but come on, my dad rode all 6 of us children around in his pickup bed, along with the family dog, many many times back in the 1960's - 70's. None of us fell out (nor did the dog) and we all managed to survive just fine. We also played outside after dark and made our sisters eat a bug... and we all managed just fine. The problem with our society today is it's too full of bleeding heart liberls that want to take away our rights to be individuals. Isn't that why we live in America. I own a pickup, had 2 kids and 2 dogs but do not ride any of them in the bed because I know any or all of them are likely to jump out. Common sense people...do we really need more than than..? Do you guys really want the federal government to control every area of our lives. Better move to China. If you know your dog is likely to jump from your truck, then don't put it back there. Sheesh.

I cannot believe people that drive freeways with dogs in the back of pick-ups and actually defend the practice! Are you crazy? In Texas it is a death wish for your pet and you know it. Put the dog in the cab, a secure crate in the back or leave the poor beast home! What is wrong with you people? Freeway drivers are the absolute worst! Would you want to travel back there???

I have saw many in Las Vegas, NV they did dogs on pick up truck. I know that is bad idea. I am surprise why police would not stop them? My buddy's dog did jump off his father's pick up truck that buddy's dog is luck no injury. They did learn lesson keep dogs inside truck.

I couldn’t help think of stories I have heard about pets that have been separated from their owners, be it from a natural disaster, or they just got loose and strayed away. I have had dogs and cats all my life, and have loved them all. Several years ago, I had a great dog, as all of my pets have been. This dog’s name was Sam. Now, I know that many of you will think I was irresponsible, but at the time, I didn’t think so. I do now! Sam and I went everywhere together, and Sam liked to ride in the back of my pickup. I usually had the rear window slid open so Sam could stick his head through, and we could talk. Well, I talked and he listened. Sometimes he would lick my ear, and I would give him a hug as we went down the round. Sam was a leash off dog, and listened to every word I would say, and always knew when I was talking to him. I could say “Sam, go get in the truck.” and he would go find my pickup and jump in the back. Once he jumped in the wrong truck. He was so embarrassed that he pouted, head down as we walked back to our truck. Everyone that knew Sam loved him. I don’t think Sam knew he was a dog. While riding in the back of the truck, sometimes Sam would get bored, so he invented a game. He would look through the rear window at the coming traffic. If a car was coming, he would back out of the rear window and give the car a quick ‘woof’. If it were a medium size truck, it would get two barks, as he moved towards the tailgate. If it were a big truck or motor home, he would give them several barks, and chase it all the way to the tailgate, and let the gate stop him. He would soon get tired of that, and lie down on his dog bed and take a snooze. One day, my wife and I decided to go canoeing on a river several miles away. We put the canoe in the back of the truck with the tailgate down, and Sam jumped in, and we were off. When we got to the river, Sam wasn’t in the truck. I can’t describe the anguish we felt. Oh God, Sam where are you?? We immediately started back tracking looking for Sam. We called for Sam all the way home, then went back and forth for three days, looking and calling for Sam. Now we were totally heartbroken, because hope of ever seeing Sam was gone. On the fourth day, still grieving, we pulled into the driveway, and there to greet us was Sam! He had lost some weight, and had a few scrapes, but otherwise he was in good shape. How he did it, I don’t know, but his love for us surely gave him the strength and determination to find his way home. It was shortly after losing Sam that I realized how important a pet’s identification is. Unfortunately, at that time, there wasn’t a good pet registry available. At least not one I considered adequate. That is when I started to develop what is now the most complete Pet Registry to be had. This Registry is built for pets and pet owners that really care for their pets, and want the very best there is. It can be found at PetiD.com I don’t think we need more laws to enforce common sense. Educating pet owners by bringing to light the many dangers that we unknowingly may expose our pets to makes more sense. In light of this need, I am going to dedicate a page on the petid.com web site just for this topic. I welcome any input or suggestions, and they can be submitted to us through the comment form on the Contact Us link at www.petid.com.

Having a pet is a big responsibility and requires not only research, but just plain COMMON SENSE.I think people don't take their roles as pet owners seriously enough.I have to wonder what kind of parents they are if they have children.

I am totally against dogs riding in the back of trucks, but if some knuckleheads think that dogs can't ride up front, why can't they at least put the dog in a crate and bungie the crate to the bed?

Years ago I too came up on a dog that had fallen out of a truck and was injured. For this reason my husband and I invented a special restraint leash for dogs to ride in the back of trucks. I had them selling at one time in Walmart. I dont have many left but if anyone has interest in one they are only $15.00 and fits any size truck. Be safe with your pets, treat them like your kids!

i think they ought to make this illegal in every state,i visited Texas this past July & i could not believe the # of dogs that i saw in the bed of a pickup truck looking soooo scared how cruel is that to scare your animal that you say you love?????

We live in Dallas, Texas. I see dead dogs on the side of the freeways often and know it is from this kind of accident as I see dogs in the back of pick-ups all the time up and down I35 bouncing along. There should be a law as it is really the only way people will listen when you slap them with a fine. Sad but true.

I live in California and see this all the time. I hate being behind one of those trucks, it makes me cringe.

Dogs inside cars can even be at risk. I was walking my doberman, who was manner trained, on a very hot day and a pal came by and picked us up to take us the rest of the way home. I sat in the back seat with my dog on lead sitting beside me. All of a sudden a rabbit hopped alongside the car in a ditch and he saw it. I reacted as quickly as possible, but he was already half out of the window by the time I turned towards him to grab his collar. I had to drop the lead so he wouldn't choke himself or fall under the wheels. My pal stopped quickly since we weren't gping more than about 35mph. I saw him get to his feet a bit dazed after tumbling end over end. His worst injury was a scraped nose and a slight limp for a day or two. I hate to think what would have happened had that happened at speed with no one close by to notice it had happened. Or with many cars around. Canids are like small children. They can get into danger very quickly, even with you on the alert and right beside them.Report these drivers when you see them.

How sad that this is an issue in the first place! It is dangerous for humans to ride in the back of a pickup, so how on earth would it not be dangerous for any other animal. What sad, cruel, insensitive, pathetic animals we humans (on the whole) are when it comes to our treatment of other animals! How sad for every animal who finds his/herself at the mercy of one of these humans.

Problem is..in many states, law enforcement is understaffed and has precious little time/resources to devote to policing the issue of animals riding unrestrained in the backs of vehicles. I live in rural AZ, and this is the case in my area. Sad, but just enacting a "law" isn't the whole answer. Education of the public is key; and, like anything else, there will always be those who simply don't (or don't care to) "get it."

I would like to say that my dog loves to ride in the back and cries when he cant go.Trust me I'm not someone who doesn't love my dog.He swims, runs in the woods and loves every minute of it.Don't tell me how to treat my loving dog and BEST FRIEND when yours probably just lays on the couch and only wish's he can do the things that my dog get's to do.I will never take something my dog loves to do because of your stupid opinions.My dog sits and waits on me ready to go for more.We live in the country and you will never stop this. Our dogs are not stupid like others I here about( as in city dogs )so just mind your own business and let me love my dog as he loves me.

I'm astounded that people can be so ignorant and inhumane. Would they put their child in the back of a pickup without any restaints???? Consider the fact that while riding in a car a human needs a seat belt. Really stupid thing to do, no to say that it's illegal to say the least!!!!

Many years ago I had a vet, who grew up on a farm, tell me the worst fate a dog could suffer is the life of a farm dog. Here in northeastern Missouri where I live people transpot dogs in the back of their pick ups all the time. Call the police, I don't think so. Police all over don't care. Police will not take action because they ride with their dogs in the back of THEIR pickups What can one do? Take the Lic# and report it to the humane society

The practice of dogs riding in pick up trucks is illegal in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, however I see this happening all the time. Police don't enforce the law. It is so risky for the dogs and the drivers, plus others on the road. Why can't we have a national law to protect dogs in pick ups?

When I used to have dogs, I would put a seat belt on them, because having them run around the inside of a car can be distracting and cause an accident. As for letting a dog sit in the back of a pickup, I wonder how many close calls those dogs have gotten. I sometimes also wonder about people who have their dogs in the car with them, but have them bouce around inside and, in some cases, nearly fall out of the car. It deomstrates a lack of common sense.

I have witnessed a dog jumping out a window that was all the way down, people should practice common sense when it comes to animals. You never know what they are going to do.

I see men with their lady friends in the front seat( with plenty of room to spare) with all the makeup and teased hair while the dog is in the back of the truck. I also had a relative who witnessed a black lab falling out of the back of a truck into the path of an oncoming car. Are people really this ignorant when it comes to pet ownership????It's scary.

I always thought it was dangerous because the dogs are lose in the back and there is no way if the person driving the slams on the brakes to hard the dog could be thrown out and besides that is a member of the family and nobody in their right mind would put one of the members of the family back there no way no how so your dog shouldn't be back there either.

In the crazy State of Arizona, you cannot put your dogs in a pickup bed, but you can put your kids anywhere you want, including in a pickup bed.

This should be outlawed! Its a crying shame! People that do this with their dogs should NOT be allowed to own pets!!

I don't think a dog or person should be in a pickup truck ever. Many things could happen that could result in very bad situations.

There are tethers made that keep a dog centered and toward the front. These used with a harness are far safer then a loose dog in a vehicle. Using an airline crate with 2 ratchet straps in the front of the bed is also a great and safe IMHO the two most unsafe ways to transport would be loose in the bed or loose inside a vehicle.

there may be some dogs that can handle being in back of the truck,but,overall dogs have no bussines riding in the back of a open truck/car...its asking for trouble...We as the "smart ones" should know better!!!! it may look "cool" but there is a chance of the animal getting hurt or someone getting hurt!!!!

I put all my pets, dogs and cats in pet taxis and then put a seat belt around the pet taxi! Couldn't imagine putting one of mine in back or a truck!

Seat Belt law should also include your dog!! If you & your kids were seat belts SO SHOULD YOUR DOG! My 2 dogs are ALWAYS seat belted. I want my furbabies protected to the same extent as myself & others. A harness easily hooks to a 2 foot lead that's attached to seat belt. Enough lead to hang head safely out window but can't jump out & secure if accident. Back of the Truck & drivers with dog on lap should be slapped upside the head & fined!

Legal/illegal? Its just common sense NOT to do this!!. It is a shame we need laws to tell people how to behave like we have a brain. As I get older I am just amazed at how stupid people really are and they seem to get dumber every year. Let me tell you I would give a raft of S*** to anyone I saw doing this in NJ!!!!!!!!!

And what about the elements, aside from safety? I live in the South...have you tried touching the body of your car/truck/van in the summer? you can fry an egg on it - yet these dogs have to endure standing on it as their pads blister. Searing pain. Same with walking on hot concrete ... try that barefoot on a hot day and see how it feels. Some people just don't think.

Ugh, some of your stories are just awful. I have a story as well, however the truck wasn't even moving - dude was parked at a convenience store, had his generic yellow dog in the back of the truck. She had a rope around her neck presumably to keep her from falling out of the truck while driving, however it was long enough to allow her to leap over the side of the truck and hang herself right in front of my mother and I. We ran to try to push her back into the truck but she was ferocious with fear, and kept trying to bite and scratch us. Thankfully her owner came out about that time and was able to put her back into the truck, but he didn't seem to care at all what just happened or that his dog could have died if he'd taken longer and we hadn't been there. :(

Can ASPCA start a campaign at truck dealerships on dog safety in pickups? How about a flyer showing a safe and happy dog in a carrier which has been strapped securely to the cab or truck bed. Or a 'funny' flyer showing dog owners themselves in flat beds, unsecured and at the mercy of the road! That might get their attention?!

Safety for Animals in trucks and cars!

About 4 years ago we were traveling and we saw a man in a truck pull on to the freeway, with his black lab laying on TOP of his bed cover, in the rain. That dog was hunkered down all sprawled out holding on for dear life. It should be illegal. I was freaked out about it for days. Some people are too worried about their precious interior of their vehicles.

Can you please let me know what can be done to get the law passed in Arizona regarding animals and children riding in the back of pick-up trucks. I'd love to call the cops every time I see a dog or a child in the back of a pick-up truck and give the cops their license plate number.

You don't put your child in the back of a truck or even transport them without a car seat, why do it to an animal that we love. Some people are just stuck on stupid. So sad.

I have said this for many many years and stick by it! IT SHOULD BE ILLEGAL! It is just wrong, if your animals are your children like mine are or they are your best friends. Then think would you stick your kids back there?? I cringe when I see dogs back there, then you see a dead dog on the side of the highway because something happened. Also even if it is a slight accident your dog is pretty much dead because they have no protection. My girls ride with me and they ride in the cab of the truck, period!

Hey ASPCA - how about a PDF flyer on this topic? It could have the wonderful dog photo above, plus a few bullet points about the dangers to both the dog and other drivers. Every now and then I see a tethered dog in a truck in a store parking lot. . . would love to put such a flyer on the truck's windshield. Or hand it right to the person if I am able.

I am absolutely horrified how many people have first-hand stories of witnessing the horror of dogs jumping/falling from the back of pick-up trucks. Totally breaks my heart to think of the suffering of all of those poor animals. We had an incident nearby recently - which was fortunately witnessed by a woman that runs a rescue. She was able to get the dog & rush it to a vet. It lived, but had to have a leg amputated. Definitely should be outlawed - all states - no question.

I called the police, animal control, and the SPCA in NYC a few months back when i saw this and holy cow they basically told me to mind my business and that is was legal. The laws suck and I have had no luck EVER reporting anything to these so called "Animal Welfare Organizations"

I don't care how "smart" you think your dog is, there are other factors on city streets and highways that are out of your control...sudden stops, swerving to miss other drivers etc. And as the article mentions, you never know when something will stimulate a chase in your "smart" dog. I don't have a problem with dogs in trucks on farms and ranches. You're typically going slower and if your dog does jump out, there's usually not a vehicle next to you going 65 mph to run him over. So do us all a favor and put your "smart" dog in a kennel that's tied down or better yet, wouldn't he/she rather be in the cab with you anyway?

This is a perfect example of a negligent owner. I LITERALLY picked up a very sweet & healthy female pittbull after she was "thrown" from a truck that was taking a turn way too fast. I was 2 cars behind them, all I could do was watch & cringe. She flew from the truck onto the pavement, rolled a few times, then jumped up screaming & running from adrenaline. Once the adrenaline wore off she just collapsed in the wooded area along the road. I immediately stopped my car & ran to approach her but with caution of course. She had scrapes & blood all over her face & body. Also had a bone protruding from her skin on her front right leg. She was an unbelievably calm, sweet, & strong dog. I took her to my mothers (which was the closest place I could think to drive her at the time). Immediately started calling every number in the phone book (since it was Sunday & vets were closed) that I thought would help her. That plan failed since everyone said the same thing:"Due to being a pittbull, as well as the severity of the injuries described, we can pick her up but she will be humanely euthanized". THIS WAS the LAST thing I wanted to hear. FORTUNATELY, I have other friends that are dedicated animal lovers. So a friend of mine met me at a local vet (after calling emergency numbers) & agreed to give her a home after we got her fixed up. She now has 3 legs (hence her new name Tripod) but is a perfectly happy healthy girl with an amazing life & a happy home. SO YES THIS SHOULD BE ILLEGAL!!!!! THIS STORY WAS SAD BUT ONE OF THE VERY FEW WHO'S STORY WILL HAVE ANY ENDING TO TELL!!!!

It is all to common to see dogs hauled in the back of trucks SE KS. In the summer it is especially bad because the bed of a truck heats up and can burn the pads of a dog even if you don't consider other safety concerns. It should be illegal. --nothing live should be in the bed of a pickup!

I see this all the time in Southern California, even if there is a law against it. Unfortunately, the cops here don't pay attention. If they did, this wouldn't be happening. I'm out of work and can't afford a cell phone so there's not much I can do when I see this happening.

This is awful. The owner should not have put the dog back there unless she knew for sure it would not jump out. She must not have cared for the dog that much to take that chance. Some dogs can ride in the bed of trucks but not all and this is what happens when ur an idiot and dont make sure ur pet will stay. God bless and take care of this puppy.

Threw is just a figure of speech. I claim to 'toss' my bags in the back all the time. Does that mean I do it??? Wow. some people. Anyway, the story is a great lesson learned. I saw a dog hit by a car in the snow last year. The owner didn't have his lab on a leash and she jumped over a snow bank right into traffic. It was an AWFUL thing to witness. Since then I always keep my dog on a leash. I think this is a similar story and people need to learn now to keep dogs in the back. Sure they LOVE it and what dog doesn't enjoy the wind blowing on their face? But that doesn't mean it's good for them!

I've always thought it was a terrible thing to do, and that there should be a law against putting your dog in the back of a pickup truck

I think its stupid of the owner to put a dog in the back of a truck if the dog is unfamiliar with it or if it is stupid. My dog rides very well because he's smart. To make this a law, or to make a law that a dog must be belted in the front of a vehicle is going to far. I picked my dog up as a puppy from the road where he would have been killed within hours. He is now 9 years old. If I was to lose him because of an accident, I would be sad but he has lived a better life in my care than if I had simply passed him by. Leave me and my dog alone.

i looked out the door one night where i was working and saw a pickup truck making a turn and to my horror and helplessness saw a dog tied in the back of the truck fall out and the driver was totally oblivious to the dog. i couldn't leave even if i had run screaming they wouldn't have seen me in time. it's a sight burned in my memory until i die. among the others seeing dogs on a hot summer day in the back of trucks. have you ever stood in the bed of a truck in the summer? searing heat. everyone that's ever done this needs to feel it.

i HATE when i see a dog in back of a p/u truck...im sure dogs enjoy to be there but im sure they will enjoy more when they are together with their master. When I see this in the street I look at the driver with a mad face. I did not know it was against the law...now i know and from now on Drivers beware cause im calling the cops on you if you do this cruelty action. It should be outlawed by the states and considered a cruelty to animals and punished if something would happen to the dog. Also it should be more advertise so people can be more aware of this crime.

i looked out the door one night where i was working and saw a pickup truck making a turn and to my horror and helplessness saw a dog tied in the back of the truck fall out and the driver was totally oblivious to the dog. i couldn't leave even if i had run screaming they wouldn't have seen me in time. it's a sight burned in my memory until i die. among the others seeing dogs on a hot summer day in the back of trucks. have you ever stood in the bed of a truck in the summer? searing heat. everyone that's ever done this needs to feel it.

Chance, you can't be serious! Police use German Shepherds because of their intelligence and ease in training NOT because they are bred to bite. They are smarter than many people!

I wouldn't categorize this as a "cruelty alert", but rather an "ignorance alert". I still remember seeing a tethered dog being dragged behind a truck in Berkeley over 20 years ago. He had somehow gotten out of the truck bed. Fortunately, I was able to get the driver's attention.

JUST DO NOT DO IT ! (Yes, I am yelling.) Slowly driving around your country farm is one thing, driving on a street/highway is another. I get upset every time I see a dog in the back of a pickup, which thankfully where I live is not often. Folks who do it, just stop, please. Not just for the safety of your pet, but others driving as well.

It should be outlawed in all 50 states. Hooray for NH, my home state, the rest should follow n their footsteps! PMJ

It should be outlawed in all 50 states. Hooray for NH, my home state, the rest should follow n their footsteps! PMJ

My brother-in-law took his dog with him everywhere in the back of his truck. Not anymore. He thought he was safe since the dog was tied. But on the freeway he had to slam his brakes to avoid hitting another car and the dog flew over the window, the rope snapped and the dog hit the ground. He knows the dog was severely injured. As soon as he could maneuver off of the freeway he went back to the spot and searched. He never found his dog, but he doesn't believe he could have survived long. I feel sick every time I see a dog in the back of a pickup.

Some people try to argue that the dogs greatly enjoy riding around in the back of a truck bed. And I always respond, "Yes, they do. And I'm sure there are many activities your children would enjoy doing that you don't allow because it could be dangerous." That dog trusts you to make the right decisions for it to be safe. Also, I happen to be married to someone who was an EMT. Even the smallest fender benders are fatal for an animal that had been riding in the truck bed. If you just don't get it think about the consequences of an accident if you were in a collision while riding a motorcyle naked.

Look at the article...it says they "threw her into the back of the pickup and took off..." Why isn't everyone upset about the "therew her..."? And the dog had never ridden in a pickup before so she was probably scared. I have seen dogs in the back of pickups for over sixty years out here in the midwest.....can't recall ever hearing any horror/exagerated stories seen here. Let's see, some girls decide to go hiking, throw the dog in the pickup and off they go.....laughing and whatever and paying no attention to the dog or they would have noticed the dog being nervous or whatever. Oh, don't leave out these gals may have been on their cell phones also. This is just one incident out of thousands...just like any other accident. This would be more of an example of stupid owner.

I see loose dogs frequently in the back of pick-up trucks on the freeways in Oregon. There is no law in this state to protect the animals from this kind of abuse. This should be illegal and fined.

Yes, In the year of 1950's, my father lost my older sister's weimarner got killed by a car that run over him. He jumped out from the back of father's pickup truck. I was emotionally upset when I arrived home from my school. Please do something with the Laws to probits Dogs and children in the back of the pickup trucks...

To all of you posters who think it's just fine and dandy to put your dogs in the back of truck (because you've been doing it for years and nothing has ever happened), I ask you this; Has it ever occurred to you what WOULD happen if you had an accident and your truck rolled, flipped, etc.? What do you think would happen to your dog THEN?!! Honestly people, you're just NOT thinking beyond your own selfishness.

Animals, like children, are impulsive and lack adequate judgement when excited or distracted. I believe that even when restrained, their devices shouldn't allow them to get within two foot of the edge and should be harnasses because they will try to pull free and fall out, hanging themselves if tethered by a collar. What seems like a great outing turns into a preventable fatality. IF one loves their pet I don't believe they should ride outside any vehicle for even short trips.

To DW: Children and Dogs are different. Children at least know that they will be hurt if they jump out of a truck. It is illegal for kids, or Adults to ride in the back of a truck in Colorado. Why not put the dog in the Truck w/ you?

Chance, what a horrible, cruel, hurtful thing to say about someone's beloved pet. You obviously know nothing of which you speak. If you did, you would know that thousands of lives have been saved, particularly in times of war by German Shepherds. I have a close personal friend who's life was saved by a German Shepherd. It is apparent from your calloused comments that you are are at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to intellect.

I have a flat bed truck and I take my 3 year old siberian husky for rides all the time. I do restrain him on a very short leash but I'm not worried about him jumping out because he's scared of the height.

Long ago and far away, I lent my pick up truck to a friend. Little did I know he was going to use it to go up in the mountains with his dog, a doberman. He called me a little later and asked me what to do when the dog jumped out of the truck and was too injured to move. I told him how to place the dog inside the truck, and go to the nearest vet. He got a real piece of my mind and the loss of my truck in the future. Actually the $500 vet bill was more impressive to his learning curve.

I was one of those drivers that had to slam on my brakes to avoid a dog. Unfortunately, I am sure she had already been hit or she sustained injuries falling out of a truck. Luckily I had a blanket in my car and a few other drivers stopped and helped me move her out of the fast lane on the freeway. We were going to put it in a car to take her to the emergency, however, she passed away in my arms. No one ever came back to claim her, we were there for at least 30 minutes. The cops stopped and said they would take it from there, they didn't want us to get killed either, as this is a major distraction. I will never forget that sweet angel! Dogs don't belong in an open bed truck, get a shell at the very least and always have them restrained.

I cringe when I see dogs in pickup trucks. I have even seen a dog in a flat bed truck hanging on for dear life. I called 911.Dogs that are not restained should be illegal in every state. In the state of Wa. you can't have garbage or anything that is in your pick up that isn't covered or tied down. Dogs should be the same.

I lived in Az and all our dogs and everyone else's drove in pick up trucks and I never heard of an accident. We kids rode in the back too and were fine. TO call it cruelty is just taking things too far. There are far better causes to worry about.

Anybody that puts a dog in the back of a pickup truck is not thinking things thru. Woould you put a child back there? If you would, you don't deserve to have a dog or a child. You are SUPPOSED to be responsible for them. They are entrusted to your care. Chance, you are an idiot! You know nothing about German Shepards, I have had them all my life, you really should learn about the dogs before you open your mouth. You have shown your ignorance. The police use them because they are so intelligent! Maybe you could learn from them. UNBELIEVABLE comment that you made Chance.

I live in a farm dominant area and dogs in truck beds are definitely not uncommon around here. And honestly i dont have any problems with it if it is done right. As long as people arent going onto the highway, are only going short distances and have the dog tethered in the back.. its fine.

I'm in florida and see this all the time. I've seen dogs fall out when the driver stops at a stop sign and also when you realize how hot those truck beds get it's got to be damaging to the dogs feet. I see dogs trying to get comfortable and pacing around but the floor is so hot and they are stuck there to bare the pain. It's hard to watch. I wish there was a law here about that.

I know a person who dragged their dog to it's death by having it strapped in the bed. The dog jumped out while attached to it's leash, was run over and mangled by it's devastated owner. Leave your pets at home! They don't need to go to the grocery store or for a ride!

This article does not specify what is meant by "secured" leaving some to get the wrong idea that simply 'tying' or 'chaining' a dog to the truck is sufficient. It's NOT. I once had the horrible experience of seeing first-hand what can happen to a dog that is chained to the back of pick-up. The poor thing had somehow broken his chain and either jumped or fell out and the owner didn't even know and KEPT driving!!! While he laid in the road unable to move his back legs (clearly something had been terribly broken), several bystanders attempted to stop traffic by standing in the road and waving our arms. It didn't work... another car came barreling down the road and ran the poor dog down in front of our eyes (almost hitting a few of us in the process!). This was about 10 years ago and I still cannot get the horrible pictures of what I saw that day out of my mind. This needs to be ILLEGAL in every state!!! To Kristen: Did it ever occur to you what might happen if you got into an accident and your truck rolled, flipped, etc... What would become of your beloved dog then?!! You may be "glad" Texas doesn't have this law... but the many dogs who've suffered as a result would beg to differ if they could.

THIS SHOULD BE ILLEGAL! SHAME on those who do this, I want to call the police on them every time I see poor dogs in the back of a truck. It's ridiculous.

My cousin nervously followed a pickup truck that had a black Lab in the back. There was also a dead deer in that pickup bed. When the driver saw the dog walk by the deer, he tapped his brakes to keep the dog from his dinner. Poor dog when flying out of the truck bed and my cousin ran over him. The van behind my cousin finished the dog off. My cousin called the police who arrested the guy for not having a permit for the deer. While they were hauling him away he asked if they could put his dog in the back of the truck and they said the dog wasn't his anymore, they'd bury him. Everyone was upset and traumatized by this. And you just keep asking. "How stupid ARE people? When are they going to wake up?"

There should be a law making this ILLEGAL in all states. It's dangerous and unsafe for EVERYONE, not just the dogs but everyone on the road. Either way it's a bad situation - if they are harnessed and the car brakes suddenly, the dog can be dragged severely! And if the dog isn't restrained, they can jump or fall out. I cannot believe some owners don't realize this. It's pathetic and I want to call the police every time I see these bastards on the road with their poor dogs.

Chance, Natalie, Landon: why do you even subscribe to this newsletter if you are so ignorant about animals? Hopefully 'to educate yourself' is the answer.

I don't think a dog or a human should be riding in the back of a pick up tgruck...It is not a safe place to be...

People have to be educated—no dogs in the back of pick-ups, or in driver’s laps, etc.! Both are illegal here in Maine. In this day and age letting a dog or other animal ride loose or tied in the back of pick-up trucks is totally unconscionable! Thinking back to my childhood in the 50’s though, one saw that frequently on TV shows like Lassie, etc. or old movies where people lived on a farm--they’d put the dog in the back of the truck and drive to town. It has always been dangerous for the dogs even 60 years ago even if speeds were slower. In a movie made in the 90s’ but set in the 50’s (Trial of Old Drum) the dog was put in the back of the pick-up! Ideas haven’t changed. Those images from TV and movies may give people the idea it’s okay, but it’s not!

Many cities in Texas mine included (Lewisville) do have laws about dogs riding in the back of a truck bed unsecured. My dogs ride in the back of my truck, but are harnessed in and even wear goggles to protect their eyes. You're crazy if you think your dog can reason enough to not jump out of you truck bed. If dog could use reasoning, they would not eat poo, bark at themselves in mirrors, and chase their tails. It's not if your dog jumps or falls out, it's when he does. Not only is your dog at risk, but other drivers that might have an accident trying to avoid hitting your dog.They could sue the crap out of you..Oh well...Good luck.

Hey Chance - my son was raised with a shepherd. She was excellent with him and all his friends. You don't know what your talking about. It breaks my heart to see a dog in the bed of a truck - what if something flys out from another vehicle and hits your dog??

If you wouldn't put a toddler in a situation that is dangerous because they "like" it and it's "fun" Don't do it with pets. They trust you to keep them safe. I hope they pass a law. If you can't understand protecting your pet, you shouldn't have one.

I just want to comment on Chance's comment...That is ridiculous! Not all German Sheps bite. I have a shep and he's very gentle. As a matter of fact, my daughter was biten by a friend;s minpen. Get your facts straight!

My dog rides in the back of my truck daily. He loves it. We started training him as a 6 week old puppy. He has never jumped out. He is now a registered therapy dog in Texas. Yes, in Texas it is common to see dogs in trucks. I'm so glad Texas doesn't have a law against this.

I'd be FURIOUS with those roommates!!! Our dogs are never unrestrained in our cars or truck, they've got seatbelts. We would never allow them in the bed of our pick-up. That's just crazy and thoughtless. Oh, and "chance" your comment is ridiculous. If you're so worried about children, there are plenty of child-welfare sites to visit besides the ASPCA.

Just leave your dog at home if all you have is a pickup and you absolutely will not let the dog ride with you in the cab. A dog that has less stimulation is better than a dead dog. Just because your dad and grandpa did it and said it was ok doesn't make it ok. Morons.

@chance - you are a jerk. Go somewhere else to post. Troll.

The only time my dogs EVER ride in the back of the truck is on our farm in the fields. I can't even get out of first gear without being beaten to death it is so rough, so I am creeping along. In truth, I would probably walk faster. The dogs love it, though, and since it is a two seater ranger, it make it easier and they don't mess with the cows and horses this way when he head back to the alfalfa field, However, that is a lot different than taking your dog out on the highways esp in a darn flatbed. I can't count the times I see this, not to mention the dog riding on top of the tool box in the truck. If people do this because they think it makes them look "cool" they are sorely mistaken. They look like idiots for putting their dogs and other motorists in jeopardy.

German shepards are bred to be biting dogs, that's why police use them as attack dogs. so at least that dead dog is one less child bitten.

this should be the law in every state...it is so dangerous for the pet and for the drivers around you too.

Honestly, I'm ok with dogs in beds of pickups IF restrained properly and if the alternative is the dog sitting at home without the mental stimulation and socialization of travelling with its owner. As a trainer and a vet tech I see this too often and it is also a form of neglect. When I had my own pick up I was fortunate that my three dogs were just small enough to fit on the passenger seats but my current three dogs couldn't do that. We chose to invest money and gas in a large suv out of concern for our dogs safety. If compassion and concern for the animals welfare isn't as strong a factor consider this: A minimum lifetime investment of $50 for a pickup truck dog tether (created specifically for this purpose) and a good quality body harness - or $200 for an enclosed crate- I think is a reasonable compromise compared to the THOUSANDS in fines or vet bills a loose riding dog could cause if it were to jump or fall out.

Years ago I was behind a truck that had a dog leashed in the back of a truck. The dog saw something and jumped out and the truck ended up dragging the dog until the truck stopped. I stopped to help the driver and told him where the nearest weekend vet clinic was. He was very upset and the dog I am sure had broken bones. I can still see it in my mind and I always freak when I see a dog in the back of a truck. So stupid!!!

I agree that this practice is dangerous and should be against the law. But, as the article mentions, it currently isn't in most locations. The writer advises calling your local police and reporting the person. But if it's not against the law, what can the police do? Seems like an exercise in futility. I'm sure the ASPCA doesn't want to advise confronting people who do this because you never know what someone may do. But if it seems safe, trying to talk to the driver, or maybe leaving an informational note on his windshield, might be more effective. Until the law gets passed, that is.

I once saw a poor young boxer mix in the back of a pick-up going fast on a highway. Since she was a curious dog she kept putting her front paws on the edge of the truck and when they would make quick turns she would come close to falling off. I wasn't able to see if she arrived safely to her destination because I got off an exit and they kept going. It worried me very much and next time I witness such cruelty I will know exactly what to do. Thanks ASPCA!

When i bought my new pick i also bought a new camper shell jsy fo r my girls , it also gives them good shade from the sun. LETS MAKE THIS LAW!!!!!!

I was in front the back of an open jeep that took off from a green light. His dog was thrown out of the Jeep and was being hung and dragged. I honked the horn and screamed and he stopped. If I didn't do that his dog would of been dragged to death. It was horrific.

A dog is THE best friend you'll ever have. Take him with you but let him ride in the cab with you. I've seen the scared look on a dog's face in the back of a truck and its horrible.If only people had the compassion of a dog.

Anyone who transports an unsecured animal of any kind in the back of a pickup on a public road is a moron. I can see animals in pickup truck beds running around someone's farm or property as OK, but on public streets, it's just stupid beyond imagination. It should carry a Animal Cruelty charge as well as a reckless driving charge.

I get so nervous when I see dogs in the back of trucks. One night driving home from work on a very busy interstate highway, we were getting off the exit ramp. About 4 cars ahead of us was a small pickup with two black labs who were very excited. YOu could tell this because they had their front paws perched up on the side rails of the truck. No suprise since on the right side of the road is a pond which usually has ducks swimming in it. Well, I don't know if the one fell out or jumped but it went right into the left lane of traffic. Since traffic was moving very slow the dog did not get hit by a car. Thank God. The owner jumped out of his car and started beating on the dog put the dog back in the pick up which the dog tried to get back out of . Can you blame him he just got hit by this guy. The owner started hitting the dog again. The other dog looked terrified. By this time my husband and I were pulled up next to him and my husband rolled down the window to try and calm the guy down. When I said to the guy that it was not the dogs fault the guy looked shocked and said to me "What do you mean HE jumped out of truck!" and then he stomped away. I deeply regret how I handled the situation. I should have immediately called the police with this guys license number. I can only hope maybe someone else in the traffic did. I was just so shook up by the whole thing. It really was unnerving. It probably sounds stupid but I did a lot of praying for those two dogs.

Hi Scott, would you happen to have a copy or link of any jurisdictions' local ordinance which requires safeguarding animals in open vehicles/trucks? I would like to use it to submit to our local city council as an example/draft proposal for our jurisdiction. Thanks! (email address is gonzalez@prismnet.com)

This is a no brainer. All states should have laws banning dogs from being transported loose in the back of a pickup without sides as high as the cab. It's time we change this for the dogs' safety & those of us using the roadways alongside them.

One wonders how any pet owner would justify in his/her mind putting an animal in an unsafe environment. I agree with many others, they must be ignorant, or worse, don't care. I intend to contact my state representative, state senator, and the appropriate state agency for animal welfare and request they take action.

The truth of the matter is that many people do not care about animal safety. Here in Texas, a dog riding in the bed of a pickup is a common practice. There is a mentality in our state, that animals are viewed as property instead of living sentient creatures. There's a comment made by a Landon on this site, who thinks it is rediculous to make such laws that prohibit a dog riding in the bed of a pickup. It is this very kind of attitude that animals without a choice, and caring people have to battle everyday. Obviously dogs are not people, but why does that exclude them from being treated with care and respect? You might think that it looks cool to transport your 'buddy' or 'dog' in the bed of a pickup, but let me assure you that it is not the case, it makes you look like a irresponsible putz!

I was used to seeing dogs riding in open flat bed trucks whenever I visit my parents in South Carolina. But imagine my surprise, while driving in Brooklyn NY, seeing a covered pickup tuck with two Vizslas, unleashed, with their heads sticking out the open back window. As I drove behind him, I wondered what would happen if one of those dogs jumped out in the middle of this heavy traffic, when I suddenly saw a Cocker Spaniel pop up and hang his front legs across the tailgate. I hit my brakes when I saw this, and I'm glad that no one was close behind me. If this dog had jumped out, I may have ran him over or caused and accident, trying not to hit the dog. I just don't understand how people can be so stupid.

I too think there should be a national campaign outlawing this practice. If you drive around on the highway with your dog in the bed of your truck, it is a danger to your pet, to yourself, and to others on the road. If you can't afford a stationary kennel for the bed of your truck, don't bring your dog with you. If you still choose to do this, you shouldn't have a dog because you don't care about it or other people on the road. I bet you are the same people who drive around with shoddy trailers that are falling to pieces that could buckle underneath the unsecured load you have on it.

You wouldn't put a child in the back of a pick-up truck and this is the same thing. It's terrible and people who do it should be fined and the dog removed from their custody. I watched as a tree trimmer drove down our back alley and his dog, also on a rope, jumped out and was in danger of being dragged and kiled. I ran out the back door screaming at him before he went further. What a moron. On another note-I'm having trouble posting this message because although I am accurately filling in the window below which is supposed to acknowledge me as a human not a bot, I keep being told I am not matching the challenge words. What gives with that?

I regularly drive with my lab/shepherd in the back of my truck. When he first started riding in the back about 9 years ago, I was careful to keep him tied to a harness and only drive locally. Now he is used to it, I occasionally drive on the freeway with him in the back. He sits behind the cab usually where there is no wind. I think that it is ok as long as owners are responsible enough to make the decision whether their dog will be safe or not. I wouldn't take a new pet out on the freeway before getting him/her used to traveling in the back. Some dogs, like my friend's I would NEVER allow in the back of any truck as I have allowed him up there in the driveway and it's obvious he would probably try to jump out and probably hang himself. Again, I think it is an individual decision and shouldn't just be banned because of some irresponsible owners. They shouldn't have pets in the first place.

I so agree with all the comments here. I have been so angry I can't see straight when I see dogs on the top of tool boxes pacing back and forth while the trucks speed down the road. I know one guy whose dog jumped or fell out. He went back to get the dog then beat her for jumping! He had another dog he tied to the back tailgate that jumped out and she was nearly choked to death when he came back outside. I reported him, of course, but nothing was ever done. I think there should be laws in all states about loose dogs in the back of pickups and also a stipulation as to how they should be safely tied IF they would even allow tying. Personally, they should be in a crate to avoid eye injuries, IMO. I have owned large dogs all my life, and if they ever have to travel in the back of my truck, it is with a harness and cross tied. I also put something in the back so they don't have to lay on the cold hard steel, or if in the summer, on the burning hot metal. Another pet peeve of mine, people who put their dogs in the back of their trucks on a hot summer day, when the metal is so hot you can't leave your hand on it, but the dogs pads are in contact with it the whole time.

We have a law here in TX. against this cruel practice, but law enforcement seems to think it's not a big deal!! When I see people doing this, I chase them down and tell them how harmful it can be to their beloved pets!! Sometimes it works and sometimes they just tell me to mind my own business! But, I am at least trying my best to save a dog!!

I recently witnessed an Australian Shepherd in the bed of a company pickup. The truck was at a stoplight and the owner got out of the truck to get something from the bed. When he did, the dog became anxious and climbed on top of the toolbox. The owner got back in the truck and made a feeble attempt to tell the dog to get down, but when the left arrow turned green, he proceeded to turn left with the dog pacing back and forth on the tool box. I took a picture and posted it on Facebook. One of my friends have contacts with authorities in his state and reported him thank goodness. Had I been driving the car I was in, I would have followed this nut and given him a piece of my sharp tongue. Unfortunately, the situation was not in my control. People don't understand that not only is it extremely dangerous for the dog, but it is also disastrous for those who may be affected if the dog should fall or jump from the vehicle. It seems that a requirement should be pet care certification courses prior to being allowed to own a pet.

it,s very unsafe for animals to ride in back of trucks. let ban this subject.ban all animals in pickup trucks

I put my dogs in a xtra large crate, that is covered on top and has a water bow in the back of my truck.The crate is tied down. I agree on not having them loose and with no protection. It's irresponsible and thoughtless. I have seen children in the back also,so imagine an animal would be less of a thought.

I have called the police and state patrol before when seeing poor animals in the back of trucks. They go back and forth and the trucks do no even seem to care. The law states that it is not illegal for this to happen and they wont do anything unless they see the animal jump out or it causes a problem. So very sad in Colorado.

Ride a dogs in the back of the trucks should be illegal and fined with high penalties.the people should be educated that, all of us need to protect our animals. please please spread that words to others too

pets in the back of a pickup or sitting in the front seat become flying missiles when a sudden braking happens...what are people thinking when they put their pets in such danger?

This is ridiculous. I love my dog and other dogs, but my dog rides in the back of my truck and so thousands others. Sure there are cases where dogs jump out. There are also cases where dogs stay in the truck. This is outrageous that you want to ban this and make it a law and send everyone to jail and do to humans as you do animals. Animals are not equal to humans. Dogs riding in the back of the truck half of the time is because they are big dogs and can't fit anywhere else even if there is a kennel inside of the car (if you can fit it). Sure you can put a kennel in the back of the truck but don't use a leash the effects of a leash are way worse than the dog actually jumping out. They practically hang themselves. All I'm saying is calm down. You have to take the good with the bad. And it should not be outlawed.

I live in Maryland and see this happening all the time in Carroll County. After seeing a dog getting thrown from one side of the truck bed to the other, I phoned the police and asked that they do sojmething. They said it was not illegal and that I should "mind my own business". I was shocked. I always wonder if this dog is still alive.

We used to have a pick-up truck and we would have our dog riding in the bed of the truck with me (passenger) holding her leash through the little window in the middle of the truck. I would always make sure she stays in safe distance from the sides. Also, we don't take her on highway roads like that... it's only for riding to town at most 35 miles per hour. She loved it and we never had an issue... but if you're gonna drive down the highway at high speed and not looking after your dog, then it shouldn't be done. Also, we traded in the truck... so we only have cars now and she rides in cars safely. Also... on the side not, what about car drivers that have dog/cat sitting on their lap while driving? Wouldn't that be a hazard too??

Hi Scott, would you happen to have a copy or link of any jurisdictions' local ordinance which requires safeguarding animals in open vehicles/trucks? I would like to use it to submit to our local city council as an example/draft proposal for our jurisdiction. Thanks! (email address is gonzalez@prismnet.com)

I shutter when I see dogs in the back of pick-ups because I just imagine them flying out if it gets in an accident. Here in PA our animal laws are about 50 years behind the times anyway. Another thing that scares me are people driving with the dog riding in their laps!! And people get upset when drivers are on their cell phones, where is the logic?

my dog rides in the back of my pick-up and I make no apologies. he is restrained by a harness and care enough not to go over 30mph or hit any bumps. to all those politically correct busy bodies - get a life !

My brother adopted a dog that he saw fly out of an El Camino--which is an old sort of car/truck combination with a very shallow truck bed. The El Camino turned a corner kind of fast and the dog tumbled out and the vehicle never slowed down or came back, so my brother picked up the dog, which fortunately wasn't injured, and adopted him. I grew up occasionally riding in the back of my dad's pickup and one thing I remember is that the floor of the truck bed can get very hot.

I'm NH born and raised and very much remember the resistance that some put up when the law changed back in the mid90's prohibiting loose dogs from riding in the back of pick ups (they are allowed if tethered or other wise confined. And no children in the pick up bed since the law requires everyone under 18 to be seatbelted). I believe as a compromise, and one I can live with, there are provisions for working farm dogs and hunting dogs being moved from one location to another that allows them to travel loose in the course of their work, i.e. one pasture to another. I don't know if this has changed at all.) Imagine my horror after seeing the good efforts of the NH law for 15 plus years, then moving to MD and seeing loose dogs pacing in truck beds and no one seeming to care. Its very much heartbreaking.

i was appalled at how dogs were treated in the USA when i visited. Yard dogs chained endlessly to kennels, some running loose killing cats and bully dogs still being bred in back yards. Fur farms still legal with digusting conditions and evil forms of slaughter just for vanity of humans. U.S Horses sent to feed lots before being sent to the killers in cramped trailers to Mexico where they put stakes through their spinal nerves before slaughter. Now i hear there is a long list of dogs and cats lost/injured/ killed in the USA at airports being put through baggage ( google the monthly reports ) USA you have a bad rap for animal care in your country,no wonder your people think nothing of chucking their dogs in the back of trucks, mild in comparison with what goes on overall dont you think ? K.Q London, England

I think dogs unless they are restrained should not be in the back of a truck. A couple of years ago there were some kids driving their truck down a dirt road and had their dog in the back, she jumped out and was killed instantly. They were devastated along with the people that saw it happen. You never know what's going to happen they see something, you stop fast or even get into an accident.

It should be illegal in all states period! I whitnessed a similar incident while driving down a very busy highway, not only did it almost cause an accident, the dog was severely injured. This is BS, and our states need to make this illegal.

Hi -- I, too, would appreciate a copy of the local ordinances to this effect. I would like to bring this to the consideration of our City Council. Thank you.

Not only can the dog be injured by jumping out but even you forgot to mention eye injuries. Ask any eye vet and they will tell you how many cases they get of eye injuries from dogs riding with their heads out the window or in an open pickup. Try driving with your head out the window at 50mph and see what hits your face.

dit moet verboden worden . die arme dieren

Never should that be allowed, lets make it a law.

It's not really an abuse issue as it is a safety issue. All animals should be restrained while in a moving vehicle, even in the bed of a truck. I recall a moment on a freeway very dark, it was late at night and a beautiful German Shepherd was run over after jumping out of a vehicle ahead. Cars were traveling at least 55 MPH and the line of screeching tires were haunting. To my horror I had to run over an already downed animal to keep my young son safe. Please restrain your animals.

I say that we should take the owners for a ride in the back of the trucks or better yet on top of the tool boxes the same as they do their UNPROTECTED dogs and see if they change their minds. I feel the same way about a neighbor who has less than a 1/4 acre back yd and keeps 5 -7 dogs on short chains. The humane society has been their several times but he just gets by. I say chain him around the neck and see if he wants to live that way for a yr in all kinds of weather and never getting to play. They are ALL morons!

SHOULD HAVE CRATE IN BACK OF PICK-UP TRUCK....OR CAMPER CAP ON TRUCK MORE SAFER

Hi Scott, would you happen to have a copy or link of any jurisdictions' local ordinance which requires safeguarding animals in open vehicles/trucks? I would like to use it to submit to our local city council as an example/draft proposal for our jurisdiction. Thanks! (email address is gonzalez@prismnet.com)

In my city it is illegal to have a dog in the box of a pick-up truck. It is part of the animal care and control bylaw and is a fine of 146.00$ for a first offence. I think it should be a federal law in the States and in Canada. Thx for brigning this up with pet owners. Patrick Animal Control officer.

I get infuriated with the owners of the pet dogs in the bed of a truck. It's such an irresponsible thing to do and so unfair to the dogs and other drivers. It is such a distraction that I think just seeing this could actually cause an accident. It should be illegal in all states.

My ex-husband put our young Chow in the back of his truck and she too jumped out and was injured but she survived and was ok. She had also drank some spilled gas from a can he was carrying. Luckily the vet knew what to do and figured it out early enough to not do any permanent damage. He felt bad because he didn't think he was doing anything wrong and he loved her and would never hurt her. She never rode back there again! Dogs can't say no I don't want to ride back there it isn't safe so we have to speak for them!

Putting dogs in an open pickup truck should be at the very least a traffic violation with a hefty fine in every state! We need laws to protect innocent animals from human stupidity!

There needs to be a national education campaign to make fools understand the danger in allowing an unrestrained dog in a truck bed. It never ceases to amaze me at the stupidity of people - it's bad enough to drive with your pet like that...the REAL winners are the ones with kids in the back. I TRULY do not understand the human animal!!!

I volunteer at a spay & neuter clinic. A while back we had someone bring in a dog that was tied in the back of his truck but at the tailgate tied only 1 way. The dog had jumped out, was dragged a little and lost the pads on both front paws! People need to learn how to restrain properly.

I have riden with dog in a pick for over 5years, BUT my pickup has a canopy on to prevent them from jumping out. The side windows are opened marginally to allow for smelling and air. Only irresponsible onwers will drive with their dogs unrestrained. Pity Julien and the roommate had to learn the hard way, all at Nina's expense.

I get so upset when I see dogs in back of pickup trucks. I just want to wake them up. And this story says its not even illegal in some states to have kids in back of trucks. I don't get it. Most states if not all have the seat belt law but this is okay? Doesn't make sense to me?! Isn't there something we can do to get these laws passed for not only children but dogs as well for their own safety?

dogs are just like kids - the can love what is terribly bad for them. its our jobs as owners/parents to be the responsible ones. letting dogs ride loose whether in the back of a pickup or even in the cab/in a car is just too dangerous. have you ever been driving with your dog sitting loose beside you when he suddenly spots something to the left he wants to see. no matter how much you love that cute little head - you just can't see through it. car harnesses/seat belts are the only safe way to go. and the pet still loves going.

Welcome to my world. I live in Colorado, and on a daily basis I see dogs riding along in the back of pickup trucks. The state brags that it is the most dog friendly state; but what you have is dogs in the back of trucks and neighbors all around you with barking dogs they have not trained to be quiet. Just as not everyone should have children; not everyone should own dogs just because they can.

This issue has made me angry for a long time. It escapes me how people can be so ignorant to do such a thing. Not only does it put the dog in serious danger, but it also could harm the driver behind an idiot like that. I wished my state had a tough law against this kind of stupid act.

I have also seen dogs tied with a rope or leash around their neck in the back of trucks-Hello... your dog will hang or break it's neck if it is thrown from the truck. Many people in the country do this and if you say something they say "well they been riding that way since they were puppies". Talk about tempting fate!

There really needs to be a national campaign to make this illegal.

It should be a state law - in EVERY state - that carrying live animals that are not restrained in crates in the back of pickup trucks is a crime. Animals riding in pickup trucks are just as in danger as riding inside without a seatbelt. It horrifies me to see thoughtless and cruel people riding around with animals in their pickup beds that are likely going to be injured or killed.

When I had a truck. I had a good solid chain hooked in the back in the middle of the bed. Then it would be attached to a harness that my dog could not get out of. The length was only long enough for her to get her nose to the edge, that is it. I never had a problem with her that way and she was nice and secure. I still have her also and this was years ago. I cringe when I see dogs in the back of truck beds. Usually the ones I see the dogs are not secure. I think it should be illegal in all states to have a dog in the bed without good restraint. As a resident of Pensacola, thank you Scott or doing what you can to stop it in Florida.

This should be outlawed. Years ago I witnessed this happening. A family had their pet in the back of the truck. I don't know if it jumped or fell but it was ran over by the car behind them. Everyone stopped but it was too late. The tears on those two little boys faces as dad laid their pet in the back of thier truck for that final ride home will never be forgotten. Just recently we were at a birthday party for a family memeber at a local park and a truck came around the corner with a six month old pup in it, as he rounded the corner out flew the pup. The pup was yelping and we all went running. The boy didn't even know he had lost the dog until he had made the loop and was on his way out of the park. We think the dogs leg was broken but the boy picked him up and put him back in the truck mad because a woman in her 70s had enough nevre to tell him he wasn't very responsible with his pet. People need to think ahead of what the dangers could be by letting a pet ride in the back of a truck.

A very unsafe practice. Dogs should ride in a harness or a cage.

I HATE to see dogs riding in the back of trucks! Recently, my father and my brother saw a man with his large breed dog tied in the back of a truck, but not tied securely. The dog fell out of the truck and was running desperately alongside the truck to keep up while his neck was still tied to the rope. Thankfully, my Dad and brother chased the man down in time to save the dog, and the dog was all right. The man loved his dog and didn't intend to be cruel in any way, but anything that puts your dog in jeopardy like that should be banned.

My dog wears a car harness when we travel, and I couldn't imagine leaving him in an open truck bed. If you must transport a dog in an open truck bed, do so inside an airline-approved plastic crate that has been secured to the truck bed. For the sake of your dog and drivers around you, it's the least you can do.

I live in a rural area of north Florida and see this all the time. It makes me sick. Not only could the dog jump out and get injured, but if there is even a MINOR accident involving the truck, or the truck swerves sharply to avoid an accident, that dog has no way to protect itself and will likely be severely injured or even killed. A neighbor of mine thought that by chaining his dog in the back of his truck, he would keep it safe. The dog jumped, the owner didn't realize it and the dog was dragged, choking to death for several blocks before a pedestrian flagged him down. It's heartbreaking. It should be law in every state that no children EVER, and no pets which are not contained in appropriate cages or carriers, can be transported in the back of any open pickup truck.

It breaks my heart to read these articles and to try to fathom the dept of stupidity with some of my fellow humasns. Don't they think about what they are doing? It's like seeing a child in a moving vehicle with its head outside the window and unrestrained. What are they thinking? Or are they even thinking at all!!!

Riding a dog is a redneck behavior. Should be illegal and fined.

There was a letter to the editor in our local paper written by a man who lost his dog because he put him in the back of his pickup. The dog jumped out, survived the fall but didn't survive being hit by the car behind them. Don't do it!

It is illegal in Massachusetts to tranport any animal in the back of a pickup truck.

I hope she got some money from her idiot roomates who were so foolish in their actions that it resulted in the death of her puppy. I would have given them some serious injuries myself if I were her.

il faut les sauver tous

As President of the Florida Animal Control Association I would like to say that our organization encourages all local jurisdictions to pass local ordinances to safeguard animals not only in the back of pickup trucks but also in all open vehicles as well. It may be much harder to pass it on a state law level but if we start at the bottom it eventually will work its way into state laws across the nation.