Toyota Creates Line of Pet Accessories

oSome people are still wondering why Toyota is the number one selling automaker in the world, but those who know the brand fully understand. Not only does it build well-made, reliable cars, trucks and SUVs, but it often comes up with innovative ways to sell them.

The advent of Toyota Associated Pet Products is beyond innovative, however. It’s a stroke of marketing brilliance. The same company that regularly puts fuel economy and peoples’ safety first, is now getting us where are hearts truly lie, with our pets… those who can’t speak for themselves.

Amid recent news headlines about California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s veto of a new bill that would have imposed a fine for drivers allowing dogs to sit on their laps while at the wheel, Toyota has launched a new pet products offering that aims to keep your dog or cat safe and secure, while protecting occupants from a projectile pooch in case of an accident.

According to a recent survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturing Association (so it’s not unbiased), substantiated that half of all dog owners take into consideration the comfort of their pet when making a new vehicle purchase. Considering all of North America’s dog owners, this is hardly a niche market, folks. Furthermore, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that unrestrained pets cause more than 30,000 accidents each year. A number of states are either passing or considering legislation requiring owners to secure their pets while driving to reduce distraction.

And to secure your pets there a number of unique offerings for dogs and cats, the first assortment custom made for Toyota’s new 2009 Venza crossover. You can opt for a rear hatch pet ramp for easy entry and exit, a leash tether for securing pets to the seatbelt, a pet booster seat with harness, a first/second row or cargo area pet barrier, pet seatbelt buckles, a number of pet tents, and rear seat zip-line-style harnesses. Custom fit for the Venza’s bench or bucket seats are also waterproof and removable hammock-style seat covers.

“Venza is a vehicle designed to meet the needs of people with a fun and on-the-go lifestyle, especially active boomers,” said Bob Zeinstra, Toyota Motor Sales’ national product marketing manager for Venza. “Many of these buyers look to their pets to fill the gap left by their kids. We wanted to make sure the Venza can accommodate this important family member and traveling companion.”

Toyota Associated Pet Products can be purchased through the brand’s dealers, with additional custom-made items made available for other vehicles throughout the range coming later.