The SPCA confirmed several dogs were found dead in a vehicle on an Interislander ferry in February.

The SPCA confirmed several dogs were found dead in a vehicle on an Interislander ferry in February. Credit: Newshub

A petition to provide designated seating for dogs on Cook Strait ferries has received more than 500 signatures.

But Dr Gwyneth Verkerk, chairperson of the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), told Newshub the government agency is "not intending any action on it at this stage".

The petition has called on the House of Representatives to "pass legislation requiring Cook Strait ferries to provide designated seating areas on the passenger decks for passengers travelling with dogs".

"Passengers, not allowed on the vehicle decks, cannot check on their dogs. Dogs have died in hot cars during Cook Strait crossings... Dogs are sentient and have co-evolved with humans for thousands of years," the petition says.

The call for action followed an investigation into several dogs found dead in a vehicle on an Interislander ferry last month, sparking an investigation into what happened.

The SPCA confirmed at the time that several dogs - believed to be at least five - were found dead in a ute on the vehicle deck of the ferry. Ms Verkerk said she is aware that there are investigations underway by the SPCA in regards to the incident.

While it hasn't been accepted yet, the petition - published on February 26 - has been signed by 524 people. It says we owe it to dogs to "look after them".