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New bill would ban dogs from the driver's seat in Michigan

Posted at 11:25 PM, Nov 29, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-30 09:29:41-05

Man’s Best Friend may be family. However, some things should be off limits to our furry loved ones.

Clearly, canines do not have a license to drive but why do so many dogs end up in the driver’s seat?

Michigan State Representative LaTayna Garrett of Detroit agrees, that’s why she’s trying to put the brakes on that bad behavior.

Garrett has introduced House Bill 5277, which would prohibit a pooch from sitting on its pet parents lap, while their Mom or Dad is driving behind the wheel.

Dr. Corey Gut, a veterinarian with DePorre Veterinary Hospital believes this bill is a good idea for the safety of our pets and people.

“I’ve had clients that have been in car accidents before. Legit, have been in serious car accidents. One client who totaled her car, because they had their pet in their lap”, says Gut.

If this proposed bill is passed, the fines would be hefty. We’re talking $100 for a first offense and $200 for a second.

Gut says the safe options to travel with your pet are crates, harnesses, seal bets and other adaptions that can be purchase at a pet store, your vet or online.