How does your dog travel in the car?  Many of us are familiar with the common sight of seeing dogs sitting on drivers laps with their heads hanging out of the window.  Many are responsible for doing this themselves.  Did you know that last year in one month alone 170 people were fined more than $400 a piece for this breach of the law. Legislation for dogs in cars stipulates that motorists must not drive a vehicle with an animal on their lap or preventing them from having proper control of the car.  Penalties and three demerit points occur. OK, so you maybe you don't drive with the dog on the lap, but do you drive with your dog unrestrained securely.  If an animal is injured as a result of being unrestrained, owners face up to six months jail and fines of $5500 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. So where is the best place to secure your dog.  As long as your dog is secure, it really is a matter of personal choice, however when deciding where to place your dog in the car a few points to consider may be the following - the front passenger seat, may appear like a good place but consider the impact of airbags on your dog in the event of an accident.  Your dog should never be placed on the front seat unsecured. - Rear seats are a good option if they are not already taken by other people - in the rearstorage area of the car is one of the safest places for your dog but it is still a good idea to restrain the dog to prevent them from jumping over into the rear seats.  Obviously there is a risk of  someone running into the back of the car so again this is personal choice. - Some people choose to have their dogs in a secure crate which is then attached or seat belted into the car. Whichever way you decide to secure your dog, remember, they should never be able to distract you whilst you are driving and you should always consider how safe and secure they are, should you have an accident.