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Like most dogs, my hounds, Beau and Gus, love going for rides in the car (OK, Gus sometimes naps on longer trips). Now, it seems, carmakers are beginning to take notice—especially in Japan, where there are now more dogs and cats than kids younger than 15. So look for minivans to become as friendly to furry, four-legged "kids" as they are to more conventional rugrats.

The new Japanese Honda Freed, for example, has a floor low enough for even short-legged dogs to jump into the car. Here in the States, the Honda Element was chosen as the "Best dog car, ever" by (who else?) DogCars.com—for being easy-to-clean and resistant to nose-prints.

We may not all be able to go out and change cars, but now—at the beginning of vacation season—it's a good time to give some thought to the best ways to travel with our animal companions. PETA's Web site HelpingAnimals.com has a lot of great tips about how to enjoy a road trip with Rover—or how to take care of him while you're away.

Of course, if you do decide to take your furry friends along, be sure to plan ahead for pit stops—even without the heat of summer, cars can get way too hot for dogs and cats in no time at all!

Posted by Jeff Mackey

Now that the warmer months are finally upon us, you're probably planning your summer getaway, right? C'mon, don't deny it—I know I am! I plan on spending a ridiculous amount of time at the beach this summer—relaxing on the sand, strolling the boardwalk, doing some kayaking in the ocean waves, probably falling out of the kayak in the ocean waves ....

What I'm getting at is whether you're headed to the beach, to the weekend bed and breakfast, or up the West Coast on a road trip, why not consider taking your furry companions with you? There are a number of activities that you can do together—you can take a walking tour of an old town, play Frisbee on the beach, or visit local dog parks for some R and R.

Most dogs love car rides, and let's face it, your pooch is probably your only friend who won't judge your off-beat, out-of-tune, don't-even-know-the-words singing. It's true. Plus, there are some great destinations out there that offer animal-friendly accommodations, and they won't cost you a fortune. Most rest stops along the main highways nowadays even have designated dog areas so that you can both get out and stretch your legs.

As far as your dog's safety is concerned, it's best to make sure your four-legged friend is up-to-date with all the appropriate tags. And don't forget to stick a recent photo of your dog in your wallet in case of an emergency.

There. You're all set. Now plan your vacation, pack the car, grab your pooch, and hit the open road! And do send all your envious friends postcards—they will surely thank you.

—Jen

Posted by Jennifer Cierlitsky, Membership Correspondence Coordinator