The New South Wales (NSW) government is proposing changes to animal welfare laws, including a specific offense for leaving dogs in hot cars and a ban on prong collars.
Hot Cars Offence
- The proposed law introduces a specific offense for leaving a dog in a hot car.
- Penalties could include fines up to $44,000 or one year in jail.
- Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty stated that car interiors can reach 70°C on a 30°C day, posing a risk to animals left inside.
- The new offense aims to be easier to prove than existing serious circumstances, contingent on specific temperature and time limits yet to be finalized.
- Victoria's current rule prohibits leaving a dog in a car for more than 10 minutes when the outside temperature is 28°C or higher.
- "Common sense" considerations, such as air conditioning or protections, will be incorporated into the legislation.
- Owners are advised never to leave dogs in hot cars, even for short periods.
Ute Owners Requirements
- Motorists transporting dogs on the back of utes will be required to provide protection from the elements on hot days.
- This includes access to water and fresh air, and ensuring dogs are not tethered in a way that prevents movement.
- In Victoria, dogs on ute trays must have access to insulating material to shield them from hot metal once temperatures reach 28°C.
Prong Collar Ban
- The government plans to ban the use of prong collars, citing that they can harm dogs' necks.
- This ban will carry penalties similar to those for leaving dogs in hot cars.
Animal Fighting Punishments
- Tougher punishments, including prison sentences of up to two years, will be introduced for individuals involved in animal fighting.
Implementation Timeline
The proposed legislation is expected to be presented to parliament in the first half of 2026. The new laws will be enforced by police and animal welfare agencies.