vehicle suggestions please

[Judith and Griffin]

Hi All,

We are a family of 5 (kids ages 14, 10, and 8) and we're adding our goldendoodle in about 3 weeks.  Currently we have a Hyndai Elantra (kids are squished in the back seat) and a Toyota Tacoma with a full cab (again, squished kids) and a camper shell over the bed.  We also have our poor old sad van sitting in the driveway in need of major repairs. It is time to trade that thing in and get something all 5 of us can fit in comfortably WITH our new pup, who will eventually be rather large.  Also, what is the best way for us to travel with him as he grows? Seat harness, crate, etc? Thank you!

Judith

[Jen Fischer]

2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring!

http://www.subaru.com/vehicles/forester/index.html

Roomy, reliable, SAFE!

[Lori, Daphne, Lucy & Pippa]

Hyundai Santa Fe GLS has 3rd row seating. Seats 7 so it would be perfect for your family AND your Doodle.

https://www.hyundaiusa.com/vehicles/2013/santa-fe/interior.aspx?

[Judith and Griffin]

Thanks!  Would love a Subaru (had one before and it was fantastic) but the kids would prob be squished still - esp when they grow a bit more!  Hubby found a barely used santa-fe at a local dealership and will be test driving tomorrow (we hope) - yay!

[Lori, Daphne, Lucy & Pippa]

Good Luck!

[BettyAnn, Holmes & Lucy]

I want to know how you don't' have the classic mom car = minivan! :) LOL 

What did you all end up deciding on?

[Judith and Griffin]

LOL we have a poor old minivan sitting in the driveway - would cost more to fix it than it is worth. My husband did go look at the used santa-fe but turns out only the 2013 ones have the option of 3rd row seating.  Anything big enough is looking so $$ right now :-/  I think we're going to look for slightly-used minivans.  Soon!

[Judith and Griffin]

Problem solved :-)  Got a 2012 Kia Sedona today :-)

[Lori, Daphne, Lucy & Pippa]

Congratulation!!!

[Judith and Griffin]

Thanks!  :-)  So where should we get Griffin used to riding? On the floor between the 2 captain seats (or wherever he fits) or on the one empty seat. If the seat, should we use a doggie seatbelt?  There is no way I'm gonna put him in the very back - it is too deep and narrow.

[Jen and Annie]

I would get him used to riding on the floor.  And I would recommend that you take him in the car with you whenever you can. If you're going to a drive through, running to the store for a quick trip.   We did this with our doodle, as we like to take her along on our adventures. I have an older dog who is also being brought out on adventures, but we didn't used to take her out much - so she is a basketcase in the car.  Annie, the doodle - will just run into the car and lie down, because she is accustomed to it.