🐾 California Animal Transport Safety Checklist (2026)

Animal is secured in a carrier, harness, crate, or trailer

Animal is kept off the driver’s lap

Vehicle is clean, ventilated, and temperature-controlled

Animal has ID tag and microchip updated

Bring water, food, and emergency supplies for long trips

Take frequent stops for exercise, restroom, and hydration

2️⃣ Pets in Passenger Vehicles (Dogs & Cats)

Crash-tested harness or carrier secured to seat

Animal rides in back seat or cargo area

Avoid loose pets in front seat or on floor

Never leave pets unattended in parked vehicles

Check for heat or cold hazards

Keep blankets or toys for comfort

3️⃣ Livestock Transport

Use secure trailer or stock rack

Ensure partitions to prevent falls or injury

Ventilation is adequate for airflow

Flooring is non-slip and clean

Display slow-moving vehicle signs if required

Animals are fed, hydrated, and rested before transport

Follow local ordinances for moving livestock on public roads

4️⃣ Horses & Equines

Use horse trailer with partitions and ramps

Trailer doors and latches secure and locked

Bedding or mats are non-slip and cushioned

Ensure adequate ventilation and temperature control

Never transport horses in an open truck bed

Feed and water horses before and after travel

Inspect trailer tires, brakes, lights, and hitch before departure

5️⃣ Emergency Preparedness

Bring first aid kit for animals

Have veterinary contact numbers

Keep blankets or towels for stress relief or spills

Know alternate routes for traffic or emergencies

Carry extra water, food, and medication if needed

6️⃣ Legal Compliance & Best Practices

Do not leave animals unattended in vehicles

Animals should not distract the driver

Follow California Vehicle Code §23117 and §23118 for unsafe transport of animals

Use safe trailers and proper containment for livestock

Ensure pets and farm animals cannot fall, escape, or interfere with traffic

✅ Quick Tips at a Glance

Always secure animals — harness, crate, or trailer

Keep pets in back seat, livestock and horses in trailers

Never leave animals alone in hot or cold vehicles

Follow California laws and common-sense safety rules

Bring hydration, food, ID, and emergency supplies

Official California Resources:

California DMV — Driver Safety & Tips: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/senior-drivers/

California Department of Food & Agriculture — Livestock Transport: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/Animal_Health/

California Vehicle Code — Unsafe Transport of Animals: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes.xhtml