In a story that’s almost stranger than fiction, Slovakian police caught a dog “driving” a car. The human owner of the car has since been fined.
Dog caught driving car
According to FOX News, speed cameras captured a dog in the driver’s seat of a car. Officers of the Slovak Police Force “did not believe their own eyes” when they saw the brown hunting pup, who “sat obediently behind the wheel of a Škoda and peeked out the windshield,” according to a translated Facebook post.
The police pulled the vehicle over in western Slovakia by the village of Šterusy. Officers jokingly requested the dog’s driver’s license. All kidding aside, the police fined the 31-year-old man in the car for disobeying traffic laws. Apparently, he claimed that the dog “suddenly jumped over his knees,” a claim unfounded by the surveillance video footage. Allegedly, being pulled over “ruined the boy’s hunting plans.”
Though the man’s actions are seemingly silly, they could have had serious consequences. Thus, the Slovak Police Force added a word of caution to the viral Facebook post.
“When transporting a dog, take care of the safety of the animal and the entire crew in the car,” the translated post read. “Even a small animal can endanger your life and health while driving.”
Car safety for dogs
Ensuring the safety of your dog – and yourself – is crucial during car travel. For everyday commutes with your canine companion, there are a few steps you can take to facilitate a smooth and secure ride. Start by using a proper dog restraint system, such as a harness or seat belt. This prevents distractions from causing sudden movements, as well as potential accidents, while your dog is in the car. Always place your dog in the back seat, away from airbags which can be harmful to them.
Maintain a comfortable by adjusting the temperature in the car and ensuring good ventilation. Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, especially in extreme weather conditions.
If you want to go the extra mile, carry water and snacks for your pup.
No matter what, keep your focus on the road. It’s your responsibility as a pet parent to get your fur baby to your destination safely!
