Mount Vernon, WA – The Skagit County Sheriff’s Office is reminding pet owners that letting dogs ride loose in the back of pickup trucks is not only unsafe but also illegal under Washington law.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, RCW 16.52.080 makes it a misdemeanor to transport or confine an animal in a way that puts it at risk of injury or death. This includes allowing pets to ride unrestrained in open truck beds, where they could fall, jump out, or be injured by heat and road debris.
Officials recommend using a securely tied-down crate that’s appropriately sized and covered for shade and weather protection. Another safe option is having the dog ride inside the cab, properly restrained but never on the driver’s lap.
“Too many pets have been hurt or killed this way,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its reminder. “A metal or plastic truck bed can get dangerously hot in the sun, burning paws in seconds.”
Owners who use canopies are also urged to monitor temperatures, as enclosed truck beds can quickly become too hot or too cold for animals.
Law enforcement officers are authorized to take custody of animals transported unsafely, and owners may face related fines and costs.
Pet owners across Skagit County are urged to take precautions to keep their animals safe on the road this fall.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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