Dog-proofed my Tacoma

Runt · #1 (**permalink**) 11-11-2007, 03:04 PM

I just bought my Tacoma a couple months ago, and I've already got a couple small scuffs on the interior from my dog's toenails. I don't have seat covers yet, but even with those on, she could still dig into them. She doesn't deliberately try to damage anything, but she can't help but sometimes scratch up what she's on.

So I went to the craft store and rummaged through the discounted scrap fabric pile until I found a yard of grey vinyl. Perfect - it's durable, waterproof, and matches the interior.

The seat pad has been sewn with a couple layers of batting on the inside to give it some cushion. The front flap velcros down onto those metal hinges under the front of the seat, and there is a cutout for the seatbelts. The seat pad tucks in between the cushions and so far hasn't budged. It is also easy to remove to access the under-seat storage compartments.

I'm not a great at sewing and the thick vinyl broke at least one needle on the machine in the process, so it looks like a drunk stitched it.

I recommend using contact cement for the next person who tries it.

Then I made a cover for the inside of the door. Tanner likes to place her paws on the door to look out the window.

The door panel has cutouts for the window and handle, and it is attached by sticky-back velcro placed strategically on the plastic door panels. That way I can easily remove it to clean it.

The vinyl, velcro and batting cost me around $15.

azfire06 · #2 (**permalink**) 11-11-2007, 05:08 PM

Nice idea. The biggest problem I have with our small dog is she sheds like crazy. So we get dog hair all over. Maybe thats why we take the truck instead of my wifes jeep.

marvin02 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-11-2007, 09:53 PM

It's really nice of your dog to let you think you've dog-proofed your truck.

I like the way you left access for her to reach the window control.

Nice job!

dip1 · #4 (**permalink**) 11-12-2007, 09:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by marvin02

It's really nice of your dog to let you think you've dog-proofed your truck.

I like the way you left access for her to reach the window control.

Nice job!

That is too funny! I have 4 dogs and know you try to keep them happy. Window control access....

koam · #5 (**permalink**) 11-12-2007, 12:46 PM

Nice job. Between the shedding, jumping around, standing on window switch and lowering windows if I forgot to lock them, anal glands, slobbering and wet nose, dog smell, nail scratches, etc., they must go in the back. Here's a pcv cage I made. I got the idea from the local pig hunters that use a steel version for their hunting dogs. The tailgate is the door.

marvin02 · #6 (**permalink**) 11-12-2007, 01:49 PM

I have two dogs. Well, one dog and one beagle.

(if you own a beagle you know why I say that).

The only thing they like better than going for a ride is food.

05Moose · #7 (**permalink**) 11-14-2007, 01:34 PM

Hey, don't pick on him about the window controls because he's probably got a smart dog (unlike the rest of us). See, he left the door handle open too so if he gets locked out, the dog can open the door for him.

TacoFriendly · #8 (**permalink**) 11-14-2007, 10:11 PM

My dog is the reason I got a shell

Stormin · #9 (**permalink**) 11-18-2007, 05:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by koam

Nice job. Between the shedding, jumping around, standing on window switch and lowering windows if I forgot to lock them, anal glands, slobbering and wet nose, dog smell, nail scratches, etc., they must go in the back. Here's a pcv cage I made. I got the idea from the local pig hunters that use a steel version for their hunting dogs. The tailgate is the door.

Nice idea I guess, not for me though... My dog is family and goes in the cab as my children did when they were young.. That's why they make upholstery cleaner.... A pad and backing helps out too..