Dog-Friendly Car Gets Humane Society Approval
Torrance, California (April 23rd, 2009)
Honda's recent release of its "Dog Friendly" Element concept introduced built-in facilities to aid canine transport. A finalized version of the model is scheduled to debut this fall. But do the added components represent anything more than gimmicks?
Major components of the new concept include a a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform; second row and cargo area pet restraint systems and an extendable cargo area load-in ramp. Other components include a 12V DC rear ventilation fan, seat covers, rubber floor mats and a spill-resistant water bowl.
The equipment has been engineered specifically for the Element and the restraint was designed by one of the world's leading automotive safety systems suppliers. Honda says that the restraint concepts are intended to complement the potential of the vehicle's existing restraint systems by helping to protect the dog and helping to prevent injuries to other vehicle occupants due to an unrestrained dog impacting them in a collision.
"In-vehicle pet restraints should be part of every dog owner's safe travel practices," said Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "The expanded availability of manufacturer-based restraints and features can help elevate pet comfort and convenience for owners. Good ventilation and access to water on longer trips should also be primary concerns."
While many of the components of the "Dog Friendly&trade" Element could be added to any SUV - for example a non-spill bowl - Honda is probably setting the pace for American car manufacturers by fitting restraints specifically designed for dogs.
This news story is independently sourced and PetPeoplesPlace.com does not specifically endorse products or services offered by any company referenced in this article, or benefit from any association with any companies referenced.
I think the original poster is referring to PETA, not the Humane Society. PETA is known as being a fairly radical extremist group, and has been known to argue the semantics of the word "ownership" (which they are against) as opposed to "companionship" or "guardianship" (which they purport to approve).
Most humane societies do advocate pet ownership (adoption) but both agencies and many other 'rescue' or pet advocacy groups agree on one thing - the RESPONSIBILITY of owning/being the guardian of/being the 'best human friend' of/or whatever you want to call adopting a pet needs to be taken SERIOUSLY. This needs a LOT of forethought before it is entered in to. Far too many humans take lightly. Many of the pets in my household were dumped in the "country" by people who no longer wanted them. Left to fend for themselves in a world they were not accustomed to, this included a litter of five tiny puppies dumped in a ditch alongside our road. Yes, I think the PETA crowd is extremist, but I also view a large segment of the human population as being thoughtless and cruel.
Most humane societies, rescue groups, and shelters are overwhelmed because of the sheer amount ignorance and failure to take responsibility in allowing animals to breed without restraint, and hundreds of thousands of domestic animals die needlessly each day because of this.
Only education, and a change in the way we think will improve this situation. I hope it can happen.
Re: Christal49 comment.
Where in the world did you come by an idea like this?
"They are working diligently to erradicate pet ownership of any kind."
Huh? What they work diligently to do is eradicate cruelty towards any animal. They believe in loving pet "ownership". Please do not say things like this. They are untrue. Honestly people will just say anything anymore.
Pet Peoples Place needs to stop and smell the readership - if you're going to endorse HSUS (which is NOT a shelter, nor does it support any shelter) you might be losing business really fast. HSUS is an arm of PETA and just as fanatical. They are working diligently to erradicate pet ownership of any kind. Do your homework before you endorse.
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I agree, Velvetkitten - humans are the most irresponsible lifeform on the planet. I volunteer with a no-killanimal rescue organization in my community. I'm an adoption coordinator. There have been so many abanonded animals this past year. Economy to blame? Only partially. A bad economy does not explain the horrible cases of cat mutilation - cats with right ears slashed off, slashes across their faces. The cats are willing to take the risk and still love humans. When people buy into the fact that pets are not a disposable commodity, we will see change.
Thank you Velvet, and others, for caring.