Daisy Mae Paws at the Acura MDX

2011 Acura MDX as Pawed by Daisy Mae Hamel from Bark Buckle UP with two of her Paw friends. I am usually not very good at sharing. I don’t like it when other dogs try to take my owner’s attention away from me where it belongs. I guess you could say that I suffer from Miss Piggy Syndrome when it comes to getting all of the attention. I want it all focused on me all of the time!

But what if you want a luxury SUV that can even haul 7 humans (I don’t know why you’d want to) in total comfort yet doesn’t constantly scream for attention? Well, you don’t have many options besides the elegant yet sensible 2011 Acura MDX.

As a canine car reviewer I found it to be comfortable, easy to jump up into the back seat and that my owner didn’t have to stoop over to attach my safety restraint harness. If I was Goldilocks’ I would have to say that in the premium SUV segment the 2011 Acura MDX is “just right.” So which SUV’s are just wrong?

Perhaps this is just a Southern California phenomenon but I find the larger and more obnoxious the SUV, the higher the likelihood that a small, yipping Chihuahua will be found hanging out the driver’s window. That is unsafe as even the most annoying dog should be securely buckled into a restraint or crate in the back.

Some SUV owners need to be reminded that the whole chrome dub phenomenon is so last decade and that chrome detailing should be used with restraint. Case in point—The Cadillac Escalade and its ridiculous vehicular bling. The Cadillac Escalade is so desperate for attention that even I want to bark, “tone it down buddy!”

I realize that I don’t want to become as desperate and vulgar as an Escalade so that is why I asked my ex-boyfriend Peyton Manning (he came from Boxer Rescue too) and my owner Jim Hamel to contribute to this review.

Do understand that this does show sharing growth on my part but realize that this is a one-time only event—I am talking to you Peyton! Grrrr! Let go of the keyboard!

(Note: The Following is an exchange of howls and growls translated into a two-dog canine review of the 2011 Acura MDX.)

Peyton: HA! I finally got this keyboard away from you! Now it’s time for me to have all the glory! Too bad I don’t know how to spell.

Daisy Mae: Or how to read or stop drooling or stop being a mama’s boy! And if you can’t spell the words use spell check you big dummy! Am I the only dog who knows how to use a mouse and keyboard?

Peyton: Well you just kept typing then you flat faced butt sniffer! But I deserve to be a part of this review because I got rides in the MDX too, you know! Not with you, though, because you get annoyed sharing the back seat with me! I don’t know why. This Acura had enough width for even the two of us to stay separated. Or I could have ridden in the cargo area/third row.

Daisy Mae: I don’t like riding with you because you drool like a teenage girl at a Justin Bieber concert. You get drool on the leather, on the windows and on me! Luckily when Jim came back from taking you for a ride in the MDX in your new harness everything proved easy to clean.

Peyton: I have a glandular problem and a deviated septum so I can’t help the drooling! Can I continue without your interrupting? This is why we broke up and, no, you can’t have half of my toys and bones. I don’t care what your lawyer says or that we live in a community property state.

Daisy Mae: Just try and stop me, Mr. Snort and Sniff.

Peyton: Well, here goes. I really liked sitting up high in the back seat of the 2011 Acura MDX. I usually ride around in a Mini Clubman and there is no back window. Sometimes I limp and have a hard time getting into and out of cars but I found it easy to leap into the back seat of the MDX. Let me think, is there anything else I noticed?

Daisy Mae: Drop the keyboard or I’ll have you fixed…again!

Peyton: See you around guys! I guess this is what they call “irreconcilable differences.”

What Daisy Mae’s Owner Jim Hamel Said About the 2011 Acura MDX: In testing the 2011 Acura MDX both my dog Daisy Mae and my parent’s dog Peyton Manning (so named after the famous quarterback) absolutely loved riding buckled in the back seat. The ride height is low enough that even Peyton found it easy to get in without straining his arthritic joints.

As it was absolutely pouring down rain during my week with the MDX it was amazing how easy it was to wipe muddy paw prints from the interior plastics and leather. The interior of the 2011 Acura MDX may not have the flashiness or a Cadillac’s interior or the overall squishy feeling of a Lexus but it is the one that feels best equipped to withstand canine abuse.

Last year when I tested a 2010 MDX with Todd M. Allen, his wife Ann and their 3 kids I learned that this Acura easily accommodated the six of us and a rather large baby stroller. The optional rear seat DVD entertainment system was also a big hit with the kids as its screen can be adjusted for angle so everyone in every seat can see the movie.

You see, big families don’t need to buy a minivan. Unless there are 8 of you in which case I recommend you look into a Honda Odyssey and the possibility of a vasectomy. Lord knows we don’t need any more TV shows like “Jon and Kate Plus Eight.”

Vehicle Tested: 2011 Acura MDX with Tech Package

Base Price: $42,580

Price as Tested: $46,255

Options on Test Vehicle: Tech Package—(Acura voice activated navigation with Real Time Weather, Traffic and Built in Zagat Restaurant Guide, Multi-View Back-up Camera, Sport seats with Premium Leather, USB/iPod interface, GPS-Linked Tri-Zone Climate Control, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) for Song Storage, Acura/ELS 10-speaker Surround Sound Audio System)

Engine: 3.7 liter V6 with VTEC

Power: 300 horsepower/270 lb. feet of torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic with SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)

0-60: 7.5 seconds (estimated)

EPA Fuel Economy: 16 city/21 highway

Economy as Tested: 16.4 miles per gallon

Gas Tank Size: 21 gallons

Runs on: Premium Unleaded

Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)—15 cubic feet

(Behind 2nd Row)—42.9 cubic feet

Behind 1st Row)—83.5 cubic feet

Turning Radius—37.6 Cubic Feet

Curb Weight—4,550 lbs.

Tow Capacity—5,000 lbs.

Warranty—4 year/50,000 mile bumper to bumper coverage

6 years/70,000 mile powertrain coverage

Crash Test Ratings—IIHS “Top Safety Pick”

Vehicle Built in—Alliston, Ontario (Canada)

North American Parts Content—65%

Vehicle Provided by: Acura North America

Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

About: Betty Smook from nose to tail she is the TOP Dog Paw Blogger with Bark Buckle UP (with a little help

from Christina "Pet Safety Lady"). Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” founder of Bark Buckle UP® works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes media it over tens of thousands. Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations and impressions the first year and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s, created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family and currently launching the Pet Travel Airport tour to teach safe pet air travel to the public.

Bark Buckle UP Paw Blogger Ms Daisy Mae Barks UP Acura TSX

2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from her owner) is a PAW investigative automotive blogger for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But her owner, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

I don’t like it when my owner has to leave me in the car to go into the grocery store so imagine my horror when he left me for 3 whole days to go to San Francisco for the launch of the all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon. Don’t they know who I am at Acura?
Now, I should be really mad and refuse to write this article, but I was so impressed with what he told me about this new Acura wagon that I just had to report it. I am a canine journalist after all and I am devoted to my work.

Since I wasn’t present at the launch for the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon I wasn’t able to personally scribble down all of the important specifications, technical information and pricing so my owner will do that at the end of the article. I do know that sales of the Sport Wagon begin December 21st, 2010 and that the base price is just $30,950. That’s not much for a vehicle that makes most premium wagons and SUVs look kind of dumpy.

If you think a station wagon isn’t as useful as an SUV you couldn’t be more wrong. The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon has 60.5 cubic feet of cargo room when the rear seats are folded flat. There are also extenders on the side of the cargo hold for really wide items. Or really wide dogs.

What I want to say is that it’s about time a carmaker realized some dogs aren’t as young as they used to be (I am 8!) and that station wagons are the answer for those of us who have trouble leaping up into an SUV or pickup truck. My owner was also especially impressed with the number of latches and hooks in the cargo area which would be perfect for securing safety harnesses or crates.

Although I have as of yet not ridden in the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon and my dear Boss Betty the TOP DOG Paw Blogger with Bark Buckle UP (we are hoping that can be rectified shortly!). I have ridden in the back of pretty much their entire lineup. So trust me when I say I know what I am talking about. (FYI—I have been in over 65 new cars, trucks and SUVs this year so far!)

Personally I think that the leather and plastic trim Acura uses in their interiors is the hardest wearing in the business. This is an important thing to consider if you are like many luxury car buyers and you bring your dog for car rides regularly. I am, of course, very easy on car interiors but I know some savage brutes who routinely leave claw marks and slobber stains wherever they go.

Jim tells me he is a big fan of station wagons like this 2011 TSX because they are just more fun to drive than most SUVs or crossovers. I can’t really vouch for that since I don’t have my driver’s license (yet) but I can say that I much prefer vehicles with low ride heights. I can’t tell you how embarrassing it is when you try to jump into a really tall vehicle and can’t quite make it up into the seat.

The saddest expression on my little face is the one I make when I have to turn to my owner to ask him to hoist me up into the back seat. I may just be a dog but I don’t like being dependent on my owner to get into the car. That just takes away from all of the fun and adventure of a car ride.
So the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon is here to bring luxurious road trip adventure back into the lives of older dogs like me. And I say it’s about time.

2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon Pricing and Features:

The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon starts at $30,950 and comes with a 2.4 liter 201 horsepower 4-cylinder, five-speed automatic, paddle shifters, leather upholstery, dual zone climate control, power windows, power door locks and mirrors, keyless entry, XM, Bluetooth, USB/iPod integration, power moonroof, Acura 7-speaker premium 350-watt audio, roof rails, power memory driver’s seat, heated front seats and returns an EPA estimated of 22 city/30 highway.

The only upgrade is t the Tech Package which brings the price to $34,610 and adds Acura’s excellent navigation system with traffic rerouting, restaurant Zagat guide, real time traffic, real time weather, a back-up camera, the awe-inspiring Acura/ELS 415-watt Audio system with 10-speakers, 15GB hard drive of song storage, remote-linked power tailgate and GPS linked solar-sensing climate control.

About: Betty Smook from nose to tail she is the TOP Dog Paw Blogger with Bark Buckle UP (with a little help from Christina "Pet Safety Lady"). Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” founder of Bark Buckle UP® works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes media it over tens of thousands. Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations and impressions the first year and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s, created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family and currently launching the Pet Travel Airport tour to teach safe pet air travel to the public.

Bark Buckle UP Paw Blogger Ms Daisy Mae Bark's About 2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited

Bark Buckle UP's Paw Blogger Daisy Mae is digging into the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited with a little help from Jim Hamel her owner. Just because something is popular doesn’t mean that it is any good. If you go to any dog park anywhere in the country you will find at least a few dogs that are less interested in playing and more interested in sniffing their own excrement. I was brought up to be a lady so such endeavors are, to my eyes, nothing short of reprehensible.

I have a similar level of distaste for the admittedly hyper-successful 2011 Hyundai Sonata. It is so popular that it has rocketed past the Nissan Altima to become the 3rd best-selling family car in the United States. But is that to say it’s any good? Not if my previous notion about popularity is any guide.

I will admit that the Sonata marked the beginning of Hyundai’s new design language which I think looks terrific on the 2011 Tucson and upcoming 2011 Elantra. Here it just makes the Sonata look like a big banana. Perhaps the gross pearl white exterior color of my Limited tester did it no favors there. This car looks much better in dark metallic or black.

Speaking of bad color choices the interior of my test model featured the “wine” (also known by others with eyes as purple) leather trim. I was amazed at how much this leather felt like vinyl especially when I compared it to the terrific leather in the 2011 Kia Optima EX I tested a week later. Kia is owned by Hyundai and both of these family sedans are similarly priced so I don’t understand how the quality in evidence could be that much different.

I had an easy enough time hopping into the admittedly roomy back seat but my daddy always hit his head trying to latch me into the car seat buckle. I can only imagine it would be just as difficult for parents securing their children into the car seat.

One ace up the Sonata’s sleeve is trunk space—it has an overabundance of it with a class leading 16.4 cubic feet of room. Although our tester only managed a little over 22 miles per gallon over the week (well shy of the 22 city/35 highway EPA ratings), the gas tank is 18.5 gallons so there is a decent cruising range.
Lastly, my daddy really disliked the way the Sonata Limited we tested steered and handled. The steering was overly light, according to him, and one time when we went over a large bump the car bucked so hard that I flew off the back seat into the rear footwell. Thank goodness I was wearing my harness.
So I don’t really recommend the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. If you are looking for a terrific Korean family sedan with a 10 year warranty go check out the 2011 Kia Optima. You will be much happier. And safer too, I think.

Vehicle Tested: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited
Base Price: $25,295
Price as Tested: $28,415 (including destination)
Options on Test Vehicle: Navigation Package--$2,100 (includes touchscreen navigation, XM traffic/sports, 400-watt Infinity audio system, back-up camera), floormats--$100, pearl white paint--$200
Engine: 2.4 liter direct injected 4-cylinder
Power: 200 horsepower/186 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60: 6.9 seconds (estimated)
EPA Fuel Economy: 22 city/35 highway
Economy as Tested: 22.6 miles per gallon
Runs on: Regular Unleaded
Fuel Tank Size: 18.5 gallons
Trunk Size: 16.4 cubic feet
Curb Weight: 3,300 lbs. (estimated)
Crash Test Ratings: IIHS “Top Safety Pick”
Warranty: 5 years/60,000 mile bumper to bumper
10 year/100,000 mile powertrain
Assembled in: Montgomery Alabama
North American Parts Content: 41%
Vehicle Provided by: Hyundai

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

About: Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

Bark Buckle UP Paw Blogger Ms Daisy Mae Bark's About 2011 Kia Optima EX

Bark Buckle UP's Paw Blogger Daisy Mae is digging into the Kia Optima EX (with a little help from Jim Hamel). I am used to getting a lot of attention wherever I go. Most of the time it is because I am so adorable but there are other times I cannot take credit for causing a stir. Since I road test new cars for a living sometimes people are attracted by the vehicles I am riding in.

Yes, my harness makes me look precious but this 2011 Kia Optima EX I recently tested had people asking my owner about it wherever he went. And why shouldn’t they? This is one terrific looking car that, like me, has beauty that runs far deeper than its good looks.

No car in either my daddy or my experience has gotten more attention than this. Well, the experimental Honda FCX Clarity hydrogen sedan got more attention but I was never allowed to ride in that because apparently two cast members from the TV show “Glee” rode to a White House dinner in the back. My daddy loves that show almost as much as he loves me and that’s a whole heck of a lot! That isn’t to say that I am not still bitter about never getting a ride.

I, along with most everyone who saw the 2011 Kia Optima, was hugely impressed with how it looked and the level of quality in evidence in the interior. The plastics, leather, wood and metal used were all of near-Audi levels of quality. I have been in an Audi or two and I know they are the best at interiors.
It’s amazing that Kia has been able to create an interior of this quality and charge so little for it. My tester may have had an MSRP of over $27,000 but it felt like a $35,000 car so that price is okay in my eyes. The trunk is also positively cave-like at 15.4 cubic feet. That means this is the perfect car for hauling 80 lb. bags of kibble!

How does it compare with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
Kia is owned by Hyundai and the 2011 Optima is based on the same platform as the 2011 Sonata. As it so happens I tested a Sonata back to back with the Optima and was floored at how different they were. My daddy and I felt the Optima outclassed the Sonata in both styling and quality of interior materials.

Not only did my daddy also think the Optima handled and steered with more precision and control but he also had an easier time latching me into the belt buckle in the backseat of the Optima. The Sonata’s rear roofline dips low and it was easy for him to hit his head.

The Optima is also less expensive than the Sonata Limited we tested but came with more features like rear seat heaters, a panoramic full length sunroof, a steering wheel heater and cooled front seats. Less expensive, more stuff, better built and better looking? It sounds like the 2011 Kia Optima EX is the obvious choice here.

Vehicle Tested: 2011 Kia Optima EX
Base Price: $22,495
Price as Tested: $27,555 (including destination)
Options on Test Model: Premium Package--$2,250 (includes panoramic sunroof, power passenger seat, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, wood/metal trim), EX Technology Package--$2,000 (includes navigation with back-up camera, 8-speaker Infinity audio system), Floormats--$115
Engine: 2.4 liter direct injected 4-cylinder
Power: 200 horsepower/186 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60: 6.9 seconds (estimated)
EPA Fuel Economy: 22 city/35 highway
Economy as Tested: 25.8 miles per gallon
Runs on: Regular Unleaded
Fuel Tank Size: 18.5 gallons
Trunk Size: 15.4 cubic feet
Curb Weight: 3,223 lbs.
Crash Test Ratings: Not yet tested at time of writing
Warranty: 5 years/60,000 mile bumper to bumper
10 years/100,000 mile powertrain
Vehicle Assembled in: Korea
Vehicle Provided by: Kia Motors America
Photos Provided by: Todd M. Allen of TacAir Photography

Link to TacAir Photography webpage— http://tacair.zenfolio.com/

About:
Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

Bark Buckle UP's Paw Reporter Daisy Mae Digs Cadillac CTS

As Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from Jim Hamel). A girl could get used to living like this. The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon I am testing right now is the top of the line Premium Edition which means it has a panoramic sunroof over my head, premium audio (I am a dog but I do love listening to music!), navigation (my owner gets lost without one) and the most buttery leather I have ever rested my backside on.

There is enough room in the back seat for one large breed dog like me but if you have two they had better get along as the CTS Sport Wagon is not all that wide. And don’t try loading them in through the cargo area because the 25 cubic feet of space is accessed through a very narrow load aperture. Yes, I am a dog who knows how to use the word aperture in a sentence. It’s not as rare a talent as you might think in the canine community.

The CTS Sport Wagon’s ultimate lack of interior room is odd to find in a Cadillac since one of the historic virtues of the brand was the epic size of its cars. In the CTS even the knobs on the dash and the power window switches appear made for tiny humans.

Why is it that automakers from other countries super size their interiors for our market and Cadillac shrinks them? It’s not like Cadillac sells a lot of cars outside of the United States. This sort of universality for different markets makes sense in a BMW or Mercedes. Cadillac can afford to be as American as it wants to be and right now the interior of the CTS doesn’t make you want to sing “Born in the USA.” See, I told you I liked music.

Daisy’s Likes:

• Very stylish
• Well built, feature laden interior
• Perfect for one large breed dog who doesn’t like to ride with other dogs
• Easy to locate D-ring attachments

Daisy’s Dislikes:

• Limited cargo space
• Cramped rear seat
• Small rear window cutout makes it hard to get a breeze

About Daisy: Who is Daisy Mae, she is a Bark Buckle UP PAW automotive writer. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations and impressions for 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.


Vehicle Tested: 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon Premium Edition
Base Price: $39,090
Premium Edition Base Price: $48,665
Price as Tested: $51,215
Options on Tester: (19-inch Summer Tire Performance Package: $2,090)—19 inch polished aluminum wheels, 19 inch summer tires, sport suspension, steering wheel mounted shifters, performance brakes, performance cooling system, (Compact Spare Tire: $250), (Cargo Tray: $100), (Underhood Appearance Package: $100).
Engine: 3.6 liter V6 engine
Power: 304 horsepower, 273 lb. feet of torque
0-60: 5.8 seconds (estimated)
Economy: 18 city/26 highway
Economy as Tested: 17 miles per gallon
Recommended Fuel: Regular Unleaded
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Cargo Area: 25 cubic feet (behind second row), 58 cubic feet (behind first row)
Warranty: 4 year/50,000 mile bumper to bumper coverage
5 year/100,000 mile powertrain coverage
Crash Test: (NHTSA)—front driver (4 stars)
Front passenger—(five stars)
Side Impact (both sides)—(five stars)
Rollover—(four stars)

Find more information on the Cadillac CTS Sports Wagon on Yahoo or Google and of course on the Cadillac websites.

Bark Buckle UP Paw Reporter Reviews the Toyota RAV4

As Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from Jim Hamel) one of the PAW investigative automotive writers for Bark Buckle UP® the Toyota RAV4 review. Daisy is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.” Now, you have to realize that I am a very opinionated little girl. I may be a dog but I know what I like and I let the world know when I am displeased. How do I communicate? Well, I talk verbally like any person. But to humans I guess it sounds like whimpering.

Now, Toyota delivered a RAV4 for me to test (actually my daddy had to pick it up but that’s just as good!) and it arrived in quite a disconcerting hue. The 2011 Toyota RAV4 was not only bright gold on the outside but it was beige on the inside. Doesn’t Toyota know that if you have a dog your beige interior is going to look about as clean as Lindsey Lohan’s arrest record after a few months?

What? Are you wondering about the Lindsey Lohan reference? I know all about her because all dogs read People Magazine. It’s how we keep tabs on you. Now, back to the 2011 Toyota RAV4 if only my daddy and I could remember where we parked it. There are so many of these compact SUVs everywhere and the RAV4 doesn’t break much from the visual formula.

Now, while I usually feel that beige is too light an interior color for dog owners to keep clean, the RAV4 had this ultra-durable upholstery and plastic trim that defied the worst I threw its way during our test week. Now what is the worst thing Daisy Mae can throw at the interior of a car?
When my daddy and I went for a long walk along one of my favorite trails, I decided to jump in the creek that runs beside it. It was lots of fun even though the water smelled. My daddy didn’t have any towels and he had to bring me home in the back of the RAV4. I whimpered all the way home. I didn’t like the way I smelled so I had to get a bath.

All in all I have to say I wound up being impressed by the RAV4 for its durable interior, spacious rear seat with easy to access car seat buckle rings and the suitably low ride height. The only thing it could use is a bit more style and a USB port so my daddy can listen to his iPod. He gets so touchy about not having one in a test vehicle that I think it ruins his entire week! Humans.
Now, even if I did mess up the RAV4’s interior I am still a lady who does prefer to be clean. Sometimes, however, creeks are meant to be jumped in and the RAV4 can certainly handle this kind of ever day dog life. Sorry to the people at Toyota if it smells like wet dog in there now.

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP® received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe® -take the pledge Buckle UP the whole family.


Manufacture Vehicle Specifications:
Vehicle Tested: 2010 Toyota RAV4
Base Price: $21,500
Price as Tested: $23,754 (including destination)
Options on Tester: Backup Camera integrated into Rear View Mirror--$475, Cargo Cover--$90, Floormats/Cargo Mat--$199, Extra Value Package--$690 : (includes 17-inch alloy wheels and full size spare tire, daytime running lamps, black roof rack, tinted rear windows.)
Engine: 2.5 liter 4 cylinder
Power: 179 horsepower/172 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
0-60: 10 seconds (estimated)
Drive: Front Wheel Drive
Tow Capacity: 1,500 pounds
EPA Fuel Economy: 22 city/28 highway
Fuel Economy during Test: 22.6 miles per gallon
Fuel Tank: 15.9 gallons
Vehicle runs on: Regular Unleaded
Cargo Volume (behind second row): 37.2 cubic feet
(Second row folded): 73 cubic feet
Safety Ratings (NHTSA): Driver side front—5 stars
Passenger side front—4 stars
Side Impact: front and rear seat—5 stars
Rollover Protection: 4 stars
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 mile bumper to bumper
5 years/60,000 mile powertrain
2 years/25,000 mile free maintenance plan
Vehicle Provided by: Toyota Motor Corporation

Bark Buckle UP Paw Reporter Daisy Mae Acura RDX Review

Bark Buckle UPs Paw Reporter Daisy Mae has Pawed another great review (with a little help from Jim Hamel. Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But Examiner James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But in my many years (I just turned 9) of life experience I have learned that a canine girl’s best friend is a leather lined luxury SUV. Nothing coddles my spoiled posterior like the supple yet durable feeling leather back seat of an SUV like the 2011 Acura RDX. Now this is how a lady likes to be treated. Take note gentlemen.
Sure, I may have come from a humble background at Boxer Rescue Los Angeles where I was forced to sleep outside in a metal crate. But thankfully my owner James came to save me. And now every day that I am with him I save him too with my unconditional love and unrelenting cuteness. As such, I deserve a little pampering now and again.
The RDX is not too high off the ground so it was never a big strain for me to get into the back seat when I was testing the vehicle for the week. The car seat buckles were easy to access for my owner to attach my restraint harness and I enjoyed the regal view from the back windows. A lady always likes an elevated viewpoint from which to look upon her lesser subjects. You know, like Chihuahuas in Miatas.
But keep in mind that I am just one large breed diva who will not ride in a crate when she is in the car with her owner. If you are the kind of dog that needs a crate, the fact that the second row of seats don’t fold completely flat may cause your owner problems.
So be sure to go with your owner to the Acura dealer to make sure this SUV fits your needs. If not then maybe you should check out the excellent MDX which I will be testing in a few weeks. That 7-passenger SUV has a completely flat cargo area. The RDX is the smaller five passenger sibling of the MDX.
But if you are a bit of a princess like I am and like your SUVs leather lined, solidly built and with a premium badge then you should check out the 2011 Acura RDX. The price isn’t too bad either. That’s important because you always want to make sure there is still money left over in your budget for diamond studded dog collars.

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

SPECS:
Vehicle Tested: 2011 Acura RDX with Tech Package
Price as Tested: $35,720
Options on Tester: (Tech Package—Acura/ELS Audio System, Back-Up Camera, In Dash Navigation System with Voice Activation, XM Traffic and Weather)
Engine: 2.4 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
Power: 240 horsepower/260 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
0-60: 6.0 seconds (estimated)
EPA Fuel Economy: 19 city/24 highway
Economy as Tested: 21.4 miles per gallon
Gas Tank Size: 18 gallons
Runs on: Premium Unleaded
Cargo Space (behind second row): 27.8 cubic feet
(Second Row Folded): 60.6 cubic feet
Crash Test Ratings (IIHS) 2010: “Top Safety Pick”
Warranty: 4 years/50,000 mile bumper to bumper
6 years/70,000 mile powertrain
Vehicle Provided by: Acura
Assembled in Marysville, Ohio
North American Parts Content: 70%

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

Driving Miss Daisy’s Canine Car Reviews: 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition

2010 F-150 Ford Harley Davidson Edition as Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from Jim Hamel) Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But ">James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

When my daddy first opened the back door of the 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition I tested last week, I quite literally thought it was a monster that was trying to eat me. And no, it wasn’t because the “Lava” exterior color looked vaguely like purple in direct sunlight.

No, I started calling this 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition the “Purple Puppy Eater” because I was terrified of the automatic power running boards that descended from the body of the truck every time the doors were opened. Thankfully my daddy figured out a way to turn them off! B

These automatic running boards are a standard feature when you get the special Harley Davidson Edition of the admittedly pet safe and dog friendly Ford F-150. I may have disliked them intensely but there might be other dogs out there who might find the step useful. I, however, am a bit of a diva.

The first time I saw the power running boards I cowered behind my daddy’s legs and eventually he had to hoist me against my will into the admittedly very spacious back seat. Of course my daddy never has me ride in the front seat of any vehicle. That is because even if your dog is wearing a safety harness in the front seat, he or she can be easily killed by an airbag in the event of a collision.

And why would any dog want to ride in the front seat of the F-150 anyway when the rear seats are so comfortable and roomy? There is a ton of human legroom in the back and that makes for a very wide space that I liked to use to jump into the back.

I am older so I can’t jump as high as a puppy so I would usually jump onto the floor of the truck cabin where humans put their feet and then I would hop up onto the seat. That’s when my daddy would put on my safety harness and attach it to one of the very wide and easy to access car seat buckles.

I don’t like to stick my head out the window because I think that’s dangerous but I do love that wind in the fur feeling. And I got plenty of it thanks to rear windows that roll all the way down. The leather seats in the Harley Davidson Edition of the F-150 were two-tone (black and dark cherry) and felt very durable.

The plastics were also impressively scratchproof unlike the kind you find in the Toyota Tundra. I tested one of those earlier this year and was not impressed with the plastics. The F-150 kind of feels like a luxury car inside and is quite stylish when compared to the more utilitarian interiors of the aforementioned Tundra and the 2010 Dodge Ram.

I also tested a Dodge Ram earlier this year and found that it was easier to get into and out of than either the F-150 or Tundra. I think that my daddy loved the 2010 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition most because he loves gadgets. It came with the cool Sync system, Bluetooth, a Sony audio system (so he could listen to something called “Lady Gaga” really loud), navigation, a back-up camera (which was not available with the Ram we tested) and even the $350 “Man Step.”

What is a “Man Step?” Well, I can tell you one thing. It is not a “Dog Step” because I had no interest in using it. If you want to read more about my daddy’s experience with the “Man Step” click HERE. Otherwise, I give the 2010 Ford F-150 two paws up as long as those automatic running boards are turned off.

Daisy’s Likes
It looks classy and expensive
Lots of cool electronic features
Easy to find car seat attachment points for her safety harness
Wide and comfortable rear seat
Well built, stylish and sturdy interior

Daisy’s Dislikes
Automatic running boards scared me
Not sure about the color scheme
2010 Dodge Ram back seat is easier to access
Pricey at $45,995

Read more from Jim, Daisy's Dad on Examiner

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

Driving Ms Daisy Mae Mazda CX-7 Gets Paws UP

As Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from Jim Hamel)the Mazda CX-7 gets PAWS UP. Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But http://www.examiner.com/honda-and-acura-in-national/james-hamel">James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

When most people think of a “dog friendly” or “pet safe” vehicle, their minds usually turn to that modern day “mommy and me” station wagon now called the SUV or crossover. Either way, SUVs and crossovers feature an elevated ride height that 98% of people will never use. Does that strike anyone else as being kind of pointless given the laws of physics and top heaviness? Yes, I am better educated that your children! I went to private school.

So what can a dog lover do if they aren’t really excited about a new SUV? Enter the positively wagon-like 2010 Mazda CX-7 iSport.

Since my human companion writes about automobiles for his job he tends to talk about them a lot. I really learned a lot from sitting and listening to him talking about his new cars. A lot of times I just tune him out too. He can talk a long time. Maybe you can talk to your dog about some special interest and you could become an all new Canine Investigative Reporter!

I know, I am a dog so what do I know about ride, handling, horsepower and steering? I know that when they are properly calibrated in unison they can turn an average transportation appliance into something your chauffer will always relish driving. A vehicle with predictably linear steering, a smooth ride, and roll free cornering that encourages him to drive this SUV faster not slower.

The five-passenger 2010 Mazda CX-7 (the larger 2010 Mazda CX-9 SUV fits 7-paggengers) has a very low step in height which allows me to jump easily into the cargo hold or into the back seat. I am 8-years old and sometimes my sight and jumping ability isn’t what it used to be.

Considering the never ending financial chaos that is a fact of daily life, it is no wonder that the least expensive compact SUVs are finally getting the credibility they deserve. There was a time when people laughed at you for driving a Toyota RAV4 but I can guarantee that nobody is going to laugh at you for buying a 2010 or 2011 Mazda CX-7.

While my human companion was unsure if the exaggerated exterior wheel-arch design on the 2010 Mazda CX-7 would quickly make this SUV look dated, I think that this stylistically “out there” move really kept the CX-7 from suffering such an unpleasant fate. But once you drive (or ride in) the 2010 Mazda CX-7, you will learn quickly that no compact crossover drives as much like a station wagon as the CX-7. And, yes, that is a complement.

Although the iSport specific 2.5 liter 161 horsepower/161 lb. feet of torque 4-cylinder does not have a turbo like more expensive CX-7 variants, my test unit had plenty of pep. Quite frankly it felt just as fast as the RAV4, Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V. Granted, you may need to occasionally plan passing maneuvers at freeway speeds as this is still a bluff sided, relatively heavy car. Fuel economy is so-so at 21.8 miles per gallon.

The interior is well worth the affordable entry price as it features dual zone climate control, power driver’s seat, halogen headlamps, heated seats, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, all of the expected power goodies, a back-up camera, Sirius satellite radio and much more. The final total just came to a reasonable $24,490.

My last concern is with the 2010 Mazda CX-7’s Auxiliary input jack that is offered in place of a USB/iPod connectivity port. I find auxiliary input jacks to be very distracting for my daddy as he always has to look down at the iPod to pick artists, albums or playlists. Doesn’t anyone at Mazda have an iPod, iPhone or iPad?

Daisy’s Likes
· Exterior Styling
· Low Jump in Height
· Easy to access D-latches for safety harness.
· Durable feeling cloth and plastic.

Daisy’s Dislikes
· Interior was black cloth that is not very easy to clean. It shows the fur more than the brown.
· Daisy would always want the turbocharged variant but that’s only because it is faster.
Vehicle Tested: 2010 Mazda CX-7i Sport
Base Price: $22,490
Price as Tested: $25,690 (including destination)
Options on Tester: Sirius satellite radio : ($430), Rear bumper guard : ($125), Scuff Plates : ($145), Convenience Package—(includes heated front seats, power moonroof, back-up camera, power driver’s seat, automatic climate control) : ($1,750)
Engine: 2.5 liter 4-cylinder
Power: 161 horsepower/161 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
0-60: 10 seconds (estimated)
Fuel Economy (EPA): 20 city/28 highway
Fuel Economy as Tested: 21.8 miles per gallon
Fuel Tank Size: 16.4 gallons
Runs on: Regular Unleaded
Tow Capacity: 1,500 pounds
Cargo Volume (rear seats in place): 29.9 cubic feet
(Second Row Folded): 58.6 cubic feet
Crash Test Ratings (NHTSA): Front driver/passenger—(5 stars both sides)
Side Impact: front seat/rear seat—(5 stars front and back)
Rollover Protection: 4 stars
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 mile bumper to bumper
5 years/60,000 mile powertrain
Vehicle Assembled in: Hiroshima, Japan
Vehicle Provided by: Mazda USA
For More Information on Automotive Pet Safety: BarkBuckleUp.com
BeSmartRideSafe.com

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 372 news segments, directed and produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

Driving Ms Daisy Mae Hyundai Tucson Gets Paws UP

Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

As pawed by Daisy Mae: Dogs are eternal optimists, always seeing the good in people and always hopeful that tomorrow will be a better day. This is true even if we are stuck in a pound or rescue somewhere without a home, love and true friendship. But when I heard I was going to be testing a 2011 Hyundai Tucson SUV, even I had my doubts.

Even dogs know Hyundais used to be, um, dogs. Wow, that verbiage sure sounds “dog-ist” now that I think about it. Well, I sure am glad that I gave the 2011 Hyundai Tucson a chance because, despite a few flaws, it is the best bargain compact SUV on the market today.

Come on, my well equipped GLS test model cost just a bit over $21,000 and came with standard Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity. Both of these features help my human companion keep his eyes on the road. You also get a full 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty that covers the engine and transmission. That’s 70 whole dog years!

So why is it important to dogs that the drivers of the cars they ride around in aren’t distracted? Well, I may be buckled in safely in the back seat but I’d much rather never have to use my safety restraint harness, if you get what I mean.

Also, if there’s a side impact where I am sitting I will be relying on very powerful airbags to save me. They could cause broken bones and even internal injuries. So the best accident is the one that is avoided.

USB ports are a much safer way to use your iPod as they connect directly to the stereo faceplate high up on the dash. An auxiliary input jack forces you to look down at your iPod to change songs, albums or playlists. That is just as bad as texting when you are driving!

So I applaud Hyundai/Kia for making Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity standard on most every model they sell. Even Mercedes and BMW don’t do that!

Daisy’s Likes
· Widespread availability of Bluetooth and USB Connectivity
· Low ride height so it’s easy for me to get in and out
· Low price means more money left over for dog toys and kibble
· Easy to reach D-ring attachments in back seat
· Rear seats fold completely flat


Daisy’s Dislikes
· Rear seating area offers limited visibility thanks to swoopy exterior styling
· Some people are prejudiced against Hyundai as a brand
· Some plastics appear scratch prone

Automotive Pet Safety Info Provided By: Bark Buckle UP
BeSmart Ride Safe

For James Hamel's human perspective on the 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS click here.
Vehicle Tested: 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS (Front Wheel Drive)
Base Price: $21,845
Price as Tested: $22,740 (including destination)
Options on Test Model: Floormats--$100
Engine: 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine
Power: 176 horsepower/168 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60: 9.5 seconds
Fuel Economy: 22 city/31 highway
Average Test Economy: 26.7 miles per gallon
Fuel Tank Size: 14.5 gallons
Runs on: Regular Unleaded
Cargo Area (behind second row): 25.7 cubic feet
(all seats folded): 55.8 cubic feet
Warranty: 5 years/60,000 mile bumper to bumper
10 years/100,000 mile powertrain
Safety Ratings (IIHS): “Top Safety Pick”
Vehicle Assembled in: Ulsan, South Korea
Vehicle Provided by: Hyundai Motor America

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.

Daisy Mae was Buckled UP after taking the Be Smart Ride Safe Pledge

September 30, 2009 as Pawed by Daisy Mae (with a little help from Jim Hamel) Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel, a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.”

It all happened so fast. I was sitting in the back seat of the 2011 Scion tC coupe that my daddy (I just call him that even though I am older than him in dog years) had been road testing for the past week. My daddy writes auto reviews for different websites but he doesn’t have to work in an office. He works freelance which I think explains why he walks around without a leash.

He had the windows down so I could enjoy that wind in the fur sensation and I was feeling safe in my restraint harness that was attached to my new Kwik Connect Tether by the Pet Buckle Brand. Then all of a sudden a driver in a silver hatchback darted across three lanes of traffic right in front of us. My daddy slammed on the brakes so we wouldn’t hit the other car and I braced myself for impact. But the thing is there was no impact. Not for the cars and definitely not for me.

When my daddy has had similar things happen in coupes with small back seats I have usually wound up slamming into the back of his seat. Yes, even when I was wearing a safety harness. But this time, thanks to the Kwik Connect Tether by the Pet Buckle Brand, I was securely attached to the tC’s child seat anchors which kept me from flying too far forward in that panic stop.

It is amazing, even with this Kwik Connect Tether securely attached it still allows me enough room to comfortably move around in the back seat. But it doesn’t give me so much room that I get injured in a panic stop. That makes me think it will also keep me safe in an accident. I may be an old dog but I think I just learned a new trick.

About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 372 news segments, directed and produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.