The pet friendly Honda Element; auto makers chasing dogs

April 11, 9:08 AMDC Dogs ExaminerMichelle Critchell

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  Honda Element      AP Photo/Richard Drew

At the New York International Auto Show this week, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced that new dog-friendly concepts have been designed for the Honda Element.

The new dog transportation features turn the Element into one of the alpha dogs of pet travel.     

"In an interesting turn of events, cars are now chasing dogs," said John Mendel , executive vice president of American Honda.

According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association 39% of all households own at least one dog with an estimated total U.S. dog population of 74.8 million. That's a lot of ruff ruff.

The Dog Friendly equipment, engineered specifically for the Element, is designed to accommodate dogs in the second-row passenger seats or in the cargo area.  A ramp is included to help dogs access the rear cargo area. The ramp stores underneath the bed platform.

A finalized version of the Dog Friendly Element is scheduled to debut fall 2009. Price starting at $20,275

**Muddy paw prints and dog hair NOT included in package!

How often do you take your dog for a ride?

FYI: The Element is assembled in Ohio using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Check out DC Car Examiner's review of the Honda Element.

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