The Dog Hikers: The Dog Hikers new Dog Mobile

In April 2007 we started our dog hiking business. We used one of our existing vehicles and transferred it into a dog mobile. With a little adjustment we were able to make the Tacoma into a dog friendly transportation vehicle. For 5 years it was a great means of transporting for our client dogs. During the last year we went on the hunt for a new vehicle. One that was safer, required no jumping in and out that could cause unnecessary injuries, a vehicle that provided the possibilities to cool off the dogs in the summer and provide heat in the winter. We also wanted to step away from the camper shell. Extra insurance for the soft top was expensive.
We wanted a vehicle that allowed us to transport all dogs safely either in a crate or attached to a seat belt.

Our Tacoma truck

Our search was narrowed down to the Ford Transit Connect and the Toyota Sienna. Similar in price and both offered a unique safety aspect but we decided the Toyota Sienna it would be. The accessories were above and beyond what the Ford could provide. Air vents all over the van for great temperature control, easy step in and out, seat belts with harness connection for the second row and the third row we put two crates (thanks to Kate, Boe's mom, for donating a brand new crate!!!!). We added a little over $1000 in extras to make it even dog friendlier and we have the safest and most luxurious dog mobile in the South Bay. Thanks to Cathy from The Urban Pooch, who highly recommended the van. She too transports dogs in the same vehicle. Life is good! Life is safe for our pooches!!!