How To Travel With Your Dog By Motorbike?
If you have just a scooter or a real sports car with two wheels, it is normal to want to take a ride on the bike with the dog. For this reason we have decided to dedicate an article to this delicate topic, to tell you everything you need to know about respect.
Many people already know the rules for transporting pets when traveling by car, but what should you do if you are traveling with another type of vehicle, such as a motorcycle? Riding a motorcycle with your dog or cat can be a high-risk experience for these pets if you don’t take certain precautions into consideration. Let’s see them together.
Going on a motorbike holiday with your dog
When the holidays come or get the chance to spend a few days out, many pet owners find themselves in the age-old dilemma of bringing their dog or cat or not.
If you have the chance, there is always a way to not have to give up the affection of your best friend.
By knowing better the legislation and by adopting specific safety measures, it is no longer necessary to leave the animal in the care of others, shelters, pensions or family members.
In fact, everyone is allowed to carry pets in motorized vehicles such as cars, motorcycles and caravans .
Can you ride a motorcycle with your dog?
In many large cities, you may have noticed that motorcycles now perform functions that once belonged only to automobiles.
As a result of excessive traffic, more and more people and professionals prefer two wheels to save time and gasoline.
Motorcycles are practical and have an excellent cost-benefit ratio 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 for carrying the whole family, since they are designed to carry 1 to 2 people.
But they are a great choice for those who want to go out and about with their pet without having to buy a car.
In fact, there is no need to wait for the holidays to run freely on a motorcycle with the dog. If you have a suitable scooter , maybe even a sidecar, you can go to the vet, to the sea or to the park with your four-legged friend, saving time and avoiding boring queues.
But how do you get around on two wheels with a dog in tow? First, of course, as good citizens, it will be your job to inform yourself about what the Italian law says.
Once you have followed all the relevant rules and advice, you can safely turn on your motorcycle and take your dog for a walk, anywhere.
What does the Italian law say?
In this regard, Art. 170 of the Highway Code (“Transport of people and objects on two-wheeled motor vehicles”) says that:
In addition to regulating the conditions of vehicles and traffic, with this article, the code also specifies what to do in the case of transporting animals.
If you want to travel by motorcycle with your four-legged friend, just prepare a pet carrier and make sure that it falls within the protrusion limits of the vehicle.
Ways to travel by motorbike with your dog
The important thing is that the animal does not disturb the driver or pose a danger to other vehicles. Obviously, it is also essential to safeguard his safety.
For this reason we have decided to recommend 3 methods to take the dog on a motorcycle with you in a completely safe and legal way. You will avoid fines and, above all, you can circulate in maximum safety, for you and for others:
Approved backpack
It can be used for small pets weighing between 10 and 12 kg maximum. It can be carried on the back or between the legs (up to 12 kilos).
Backpacks are sold in pet stores. They must ensure adequate ventilation so that the animal can breathe properly.
Rear seat
A fixed support can be installed on the back of the motorcycle. It is a good option for pets of greater weight and size that do not fit in backpacks.
You will need to choose a base suitable for the model of your scooter or other motorcycle, which allows the animal to breathe and which is padded in the event of a rear-end collision.
Sidecar
It is the best option for carrying larger and heavier animals. It is not recommended to carry animals that are not trained, as they can move and cause serious accidents.
Tips for traveling with your dog
It is recommended that the following tips be followed to ensure safety and comfort while traveling:
- Gradually get the animal used to the vehicle. Do not force him to remain in an uncomfortable situation.
- Drive conscientiously, obey traffic regulations and speed limits.
- Before leaving, check that the hotel or resort you have booked allows pets.
If you want to travel by motorbike with your dog, it is essential to take him to the vet and keep the vaccination and pesticide treatment booklet up to date.
Taking care of your best friend’s health is essential in any situation.
