How To Travel On A Motorcycle With Your Dog?

If you have a motorcycle and you are eager to share a ride with your canine pet, you have come to the right place: here we will tell you how to travel on a motorcycle with your dog.

Many people already know the rules for transporting pets during car trips, but still very little is said about how to carry these furry companions in alternative vehicles, such as the motorcycle. The motorcycle ride can be a high-risk experience for your pet if you do not take some precautions into account. Here we present them to you.

The possibility of taking our pet on vacation

When the holidays arrive or the desire to take a longer walk, the truth is that many owners find a contradiction. Your immense desire to travel simply does not combine with parting with your best friend.

Knowing better the legislation and specific care, it is no longer necessary to leave the pet under the care of others. This is because it is allowed to transport pet animals in motorized vehicles such as cars, motorcycles and caravans.

Is it allowed to travel by motorcycle with your dog?

It is a reality in many large cities that motorcycles occupy space and functions that previously belonged to cars. And the truth is that there are many reasons to think about preferring motorcycles and not larger vehicles.

Motorcycles are practical and represent an excellent cost benefit for a big city. They take up less space, are lighter, consume less fuel, and are easier to maintain and clean.

Logically they are not a viable option to transport a family, since they are designed to carry 1 to 2 people. But they do represent a very good choice for those who want to walk with their pet without having to buy a car.

And it is not that traveling on a motorcycle with your dog is only for vacation. It is a very useful alternative to take it to the vet or transport it within your own city, facilitating the day-to-day routine.

But the question that matters most is whether or not you are allowed to ride a motorcycle with pets. For this, the parameters established in the legislation must be met and due care is taken. It is about ensuring the safety of the pet, its owner and others in transit.

What does the law say?

On this subject, article 18 of the General Traffic Regulations establishes the following :

As the law serves to regulate traffic, it does not specify the specific care in case of carrying animals. But the precautions that must be taken are taken into account. The important thing is not to impair the driver’s direction and put the safety of all road users at risk. Also that of the transported animal.

The ways of carrying the animal

For this, the pet must be transported correctly, with the corresponding utensils. There are 3 main ways to carry an animal safely. The choice must consider the preference or investment possibility of each person, and the size and weight of the animal transported.

-Approved backpack

It can be used for small pets weighing up to 10 or 12 kilos. It is possible to carry it on the back (less weight) or between the legs (up to 12 kilos). The backpacks are sold in specialized pet stores. They must have the necessary ventilation so that the animal can breathe correctly.

– Supplement on the back

A sturdy carrier can be installed at the rear of the motorcycle. It is a good option for pets of greater weight and size that do not fit in backpacks. You have to choose a suitable supplement, which has ventilation and padding so as not to expose the animal to hard impacts.

– Sidecar

It is the best option for transporting larger and heavier animals. It is not advisable to transport animals that are not trained, as they can cause serious accidents.

Tips for the trip

It is recommended to follow the following tips to ensure the safety and comfort of the journey:

• 1- Get used to the animal little by little and do not force it to remain in an uncomfortable situation.
• 2- Drive conscientiously, respect traffic regulations and do not abuse speed.
• 3-In case of travel, consult previously the accommodation options that accept animals.

Before traveling by motorcycle with your dog, it is essential to take him to the vet and keep the vaccination letter and antiparasite treatments up to date. Taking care of the health of your best friend is essential anywhere.