What to Purchase in a Certified Japanese Vehicle for a 2-Person Family with a 73-Pound Dog

When choosing a certified Japanese vehicle for a family of two with a 73-pound dog, there are several factors to consider, including comfort, safety, and practical features that accommodate your pet passenger. This article will guide you through the best options and features to look for in such a car.

Choosing the Right Japanese Vehicle

The diesel Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and certain models of Subaru are highly reliable and popular choices among pet owners looking for a family car. If you live in an area prone to winter weather, consider a car with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for better traction and safety. However, some pet owners, such as those with a 80-pound Golden Retriever, have found that certain foreign makes like the Volkswagen Passat can be more expensive and problematic compared to certified Japanese vehicles.

Pet-Friendly Features to Look For

Whether you opt for a smaller car like a Honda Fit or a more spacious SUV like a Toyota Highlander, there are several must-have features that make a car dog-friendly. Here are some key features to consider:

1. Versatile Seating

Cars that offer versatile seating options can greatly enhance your driving experience with your furry companion. Features like seats that flip up, allowing your dog to access the entire floor, are ideal. This not only ensures that your dog can sleep comfortably anywhere they choose, but it also keeps the seats clean and reduces messes. Additionally, the ability to recline the seats for a more relaxed ride during cold days can be quite comfortable for both you and your pet.

2. Cargo Management

For pet owners, having a suitable storage solution is crucial. Look for cars with enough cargo space to accommodate your dog's carrier, extra bags, and other pet supplies. Also, consider the accessibility of the cargo area to ensure that you can easily transport your dog without any hassle.

3. Safety Measures

Safety should always be the top priority when choosing a car with a passenger dog. It is important to ensure that you have appropriate restraints in place, such as a seat belt harness specifically designed for your pet. In many states, keeping your pet in a cage is mandatory for their own safety as well as for compliance with the law. It's important to understand the local pet laws to avoid any legal issues while driving.

4. Additional Comfort Features

For long trips, look for cars with advanced comfort features such as heated seats, climate control, and entertainment systems for both you and your pet. These features can help make long drives more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Selecting a certified Japanese vehicle for a 2-person family with a 73-pound dog requires careful consideration of comfort, safety, and pet-friendliness. Reliable options like Honda, Toyota, and Subaru are popular choices, and depending on your region, AWD may be necessary for winter travel. Additionally, incorporating pet-friendly features such as versatile seating, cargo management, safety measures, and comfort can significantly enhance your driving experience with your furry companion.

Keywords

Tags: Japanese Cars, Pet Owners, 2-person Family, Dog Transport, Certified Vehicles