Car manufacturers have caught on when it comes to the needs of dog owners. Similar to the way that parents evaluate a car for its child-friendly qualities, many dog owners seek pet-friendly car accessories and vehicle options when shopping for a car, truck or SUV.
In response to the demand for a dog-friendly car, the 2009 Toyota Venza was the first vehicle to offer a wide array of dog accessories. Now, Honda has followed suit, with its 2010 Honda Element Dog-Friendly™ accessories. The Element accessories were designed with an emphasis on safety and convenience.
Honda Element Accessories for Dogs
The Honda Element's Dog-Friendly accessories were part of a significant redesign that started with the 2009 model. The revamp included an overhaul of the exterior design and a "refreshed interior design," according to a press release issued by Honda. In addition to the interior and exterior changes, car buyers can choose from a host of new options and accessories for the 2010 Honda Element.
The Honda Element accessories for dogs include:
- Dog restraint systems (dog seat belts) in the back seat and rear cargo area
- Rubber floor mats with a dog bone pattern
- A spill-proof water bowl
- A ventilation fan, powered by a 12-volt outlet
- A stowable dog ramp for easy access in/out of the rear cargo area
- An elevated dog bed for the Element's rear cargo area
- Dog-friendly seat covers (washable) for the back seat
Other dog-friendly features on the Element include a kennel organizer, a tote bag, a leash, collar and dog tag set, and a bag dispenser for picking up after a dog's bathroom activities. It's also important to note that the Honda Element's dog-friendly package is designed for dogs 80 lbs. and under.
As of December 2009, the dog-friendly package was available for 2010 Honda Element EX models only.
Honda Element's Dog Accessories Promote Safety, Convenience
The Honda Element's accessories for pets are sure to make for a much safer car ride for a dog. One of the first things that one may notice: the pet restraint system and other dog accessories are designed for placement in the rear seat and cargo area. Driving with the dog in the front seat can create distractions for the driver and it places the dog at risk of injuries from the air bag.
A spill-proof dog bowl for the car enables the dog to remain hydrated, particularly during long car trips. Accessibility to water is also essential following exercise or in hot weather, so providing the dog with access to a water bowl on the ride home will help prevent dehydration and over-heating.
The Honda Element's ventilation fan for dogs is also ideal, since it provides a cool breeze during warm weather or following exercise. Many vehicles don't have good ventilation in the back seat or rear cargo area and vehicles that do have vents in the rear portion of the car aren't very effective since the vents are designed for humans – most cannot be directed toward a dog sitting in the cargo area or toward a small dog sitting in the back seat.
In addition, pet owners who have searched for a dog seat belt or dog car seat often encounter problems when it comes to finding a model that fits the dog and the car. The Honda Element's dog-friendly accessories are convenient since they're guaranteed to fit the vehicle and they look nice, matching the car's style and decor. In fact, the same fabric is used for the Element's dog bed and seat covers, and the pet accessories come in colors the complement the SUV's upholstery and interior.
Convenience is also a theme that extends to the Element's rubber floor mats, which protect the carpeting, while allowing for easy clean-ups due to a dog with an upset stomach, muddy paw prints, drool, shedding or bathroom accidents.
The 2010 Honda Element EX model starts at $22,635 USD.
Related Articles on Dog-Friendly Cars and Driving With Dogs
Dog owners may also want to learn about 2009 Toyota Venza Dog Accessories.
Once pet owners find a dog-friendly car, the next step is to purchase an insurance policy. Dog owners may want to learn more about Progressive Insurance Company's Pet Injury Coverage.
Dog owners who aren't car shopping may wish to learn about Dog Seat Belts and Car Seats for Pets.
Sources:
Honda Press Release, "New dog transportation features turn Element into the alpha dog of pet travel." April 8, 2009.
Honda website, Accessed December 19, 2009.
Mia Carter - Mia Carter - Journalist, Producer/Editor & Web Writer. Carter's work has appeared on CBS and CNN.com.
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