At our Ford dealership, we know that for many of us, our pets are our family. And just like we want to make sure you and your kids are comfortable and safe, we want to make sure your pets have a place in your car as well. No matter what kind of pet you have, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure you do to keep them comfortable. Rear seat AC is a must for keeping pets cool, and you’ll want to think about where you would safely put things like a cat carrier. But today, we’re going to focus on dogs, since they can take up the most space and be the most difficult to accommodate in the wrong car.

When it comes to getting your canine companions in and out, you’ll want a car with a back hatch that opens upward so it’s easy for dogs to jump up. For your own ease of use, you may want a hands-free lift gate like you’ll find on the 2017 Ford Escape. The Ford Escape also offers easily adjustable cargo space, so you can give your pup room to roam if there are no other passengers, but seat up to five when you need to. You’ll also want to consider the shape of the cargo area – think big and boxy. For larger dogs, it’s hard to go wrong with a 2017 Ford Flex, which boasts a low to the ground profile that makes it easy for a dog to get in, and tons of space in the back. You’ll also want to make sure you use childproof locks – helpful for keeping pets, as well as kids, from accidentally opening doors – and invest in some waterproof seat coverings.

You’ll also want to consider the shape of the cargo area – think big and boxy. For larger dogs, it’s hard to go wrong with a 2017 Ford Flex, which boasts a low to the ground profile that makes it easy for a dog to get in, and tons of space in the back. You’ll also want to make sure you use childproof locks – helpful for keeping pets, as well as kids, from accidentally opening doors – and invest in some waterproof seat coverings.

There’s a lot more to consider based on the needs of you and your pet – how muddy will their paws be when they get them all over your cargo space? Are they a nervous Nelly who needs wide windows to look out of? Do you need a barrier to keep an excited pet from jumping into the back seat? Whatever you need for you and your pets, we’ll be happy to help when you come talk to an expert Ford dealer in San Deigo. Drivers can find the perfect pet-friendly model here at Kearny Pearson Ford.