Pet parents have unique needs when it comes to choosing a family vehicle. According to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 14 million dogs and 3 million cats travel annually with their owners on vacation. And millions more ride in the car with their owners every day. Therefore, it’s important that our automobiles are equipped to transport our furry family safely and comfortably.

“If I’m in the car, my dogs are in the car,” says Jerry Davis of Parker, Colorado. He takes Daisy and Bear, (Black Labradors), to the park or to run errands every day. “I can’t think of another car that fits my lifestyle better than this one,” he says about his GMC Yukon XL. 

It’s no surprise then to learn that over half of dog owners in the U.S. consider the needs of their pets when purchasing a new automobile, according to Business Week magazine.

Only a few manufacturers actually design cars with pet passengers in mind, so many owners, particularly those with large dogs, choose a practical “dog car” then make their own modifications to maximize creature comforts.

For example, Davis installed special hooks for leashes in the back of his Yukon so that when he opens the back door at the dog park, Daisy and Bear can’t jump out until he’s ready to unload them.

“On long trips, my dogs have lots of room to stretch out and relax,” says Davis. “But on short errands, I can easily strap Daisy into her harness in the front seat, while Bear rides in the back.

Davis also appreciates the safety of a large truck and its ability to transport his two dogs and three grandsons comfortably.  He says his dogs prefer a white vehicle—“they can find it right away in a parking lot!”

GMC Yukon XL, 2008 models start at $39,815 (the standard Yukon model starts at $36,245).

Since car buying can be a daunting task, I’ve sniffed out some favorites already rated for functionality and safety — top concerns for pet owners. Following are some of the best vehicles in the ‘barking lot’!

Dogcars.com is a great car buying resource for pet-lovers. Recently, they awarded the Honda Element the ‘Dog Car of the Year’ for 2007.

This affordable, funky critter mobile offers a fido-functional interior, anti-nose print windows, and easy to clean seats and floors. It’s easy to see why they chose it Best in Show!

Angela Ellis of Tampa, Florida recently loaded her bunny and two cats into her Element to move last weekend. “I put Sara (the rabbit) in a pet carrier. She kicks litter out every time but I was able to just sweep it out the back really easily,” beamed Ellis. “For 11 years I had a German Shepherd. He would have loved the Element and I could have easily cleaned all the hair out.”

Best Cars for Pets Page #2 >>

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