Petition for prohibition of the transport of dogs on pickup trucks

An estimated 100,000 dogs die every year as a result of falling or jumping off of pick-up trucks. If the dogs do not die, they commonly suffer from multiple fractures, abdominal and thoracic trauma, and severe cuts and bruises. In many cases, dogs that do manage to survive are hit and killed by other vehicles.
Even if dogs are tied down, the dogs can jump and be hanged or dragged alongside the vehicle, causing terrible abrasions. Even if dogs do not fall, the hot metal of the truck can burn dogs' feet. Dogs riding in the hot sun without shade may suffer from heatstroke. Several studies have indicated that covering the bed of the pick-up with a tarpaulin or shell may expose dogs or other passengers to potentially lethal carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition, dogs can get corneal ulcers when bugs, sand, debris, or other objects are blown into their eyes when trucks travel at high speeds. This matter is not only a danger to animals, but humans as well. When a dog falls or jumps out it can potentially start a car accident, leading to deaths of innocent Texans :

Therefore...We the undersigned ask that you use your leadership powers to propose a bill identical or similar to the following:
Transporting Dogs in Pickup Trucks.
I. No person driving a pickup truck shall transport any dog in the back of the vehicle on a public way, unless the space is enclosed or has side and tail racks to a height of at least 46 inches extending vertically from the floor, the dog is cross tethered to the vehicle, the dog is protected by a secured container or cage, or the dog is otherwise protected, in a manner which will prevent the dog from being thrown or from falling or jumping from the vehicle.
II. Notwithstanding paragraph I, this section shall not apply to the following:
(a) A dog being used by a farmer or farm employee while actually engaged in farming activities requiring the services of a dog; or
(b) A hunting dog being used at a hunting site or between hunting sites by a licensed hunter who is in possession of all applicable licenses and permits for the species being pursued during the legal season for such activity.
III. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a violation.