Creating "dog mode"

[RR - All the way]

I've done that, too. But the risk of theft is much higher. I'm looking to avoid leaving the keys in the truck.

Make sure the dog is very large and trained to attack thieves!

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[Waterick]

Yes, and put on side windows, those are the ones someone would break to get in and "save" the dog.

This is especially important on a hybrid where the engine might not be actually running.

 

[Kingfish]

This is especially important on a hybrid where the engine might not be actually running.

That's a good point!

 

[Kingfish]

Make a sign saying the dog is chilling in the AC and not to break your windows to 'rescue' it

That's a good plan. I can leave it attached to the sunshade, maybe.

 

[Kingfish]

Like the thought but worry if someone might try to steal it or something would go wrong. Now if you want to work on mother in law mode I have a few suggestions......

That might be a self driving car...

 

[Speed2000]

My dog would eventually bite on the gear selector and step on the parking brake release,...doggone.... he already knows how to roll the windows down

 

[1929]

If they are in the cab I just leave it running and use the keypad on the door. Lock the parking break to they cant drive it anywhere. All good.

I do the same.

Keypad is AWESOME

 

[paneubert]

They do make side window mounted exhaust fans you could consider if you wanted to. Narrow full width fans that you roll the window up to lock into place (thus easily removable). Usually solar powered. Doubt you want to go that far, but would be an option to ensure some air exchange/flow.

 

[Old Fart]

I've been working on a "dog mode" setup that will allow me to safely leave doggo in the truck for short periods of time on hot days.

This is useful on long trips when visits to the bathroom and supply stops ate unavoidable. It'll also be nice to not have to go home in between trail walks and running errands. These are very common (weekly at least) scenarios during the 4-plus months it's too hot to sit in a car here.

Here's what I have/am planning:

Remote start: After exiting the truck, lock it, hit the remote start. I have it set for 15 minute run time. Need to make sure the AC is on. You can extend the runtime with the key fob if needed. This is better than leaving the truck running with keys in for obvious reasons.

Tinted windows and sunshade: to minimize internal heat. Also to block the view so passersby don't worry about the dog in the truck and don't know if someone is in it with the engine running. I have the sunshade but haven't tinted to front windows yet.

Temp monitor: use the Waggle (or similar) temp monitor I'll get for my camp trailer soon in the truck to make sure nothing goes wrong. I don't have this yet.

We tested the remote start opten on a long drive this week. We only left it going for about 5 minutes since I don't have the temp monitor yet. But it allowed us a quick run in for bathroom and coffee stops and the truck was nice and chilly when we got back.

It's a simple thing, but it makes these trips a lot more convenient.

Any other ideas for fool-proofing dog mode?

My camper has A/C and refrigerator that runs off inverter and battery whilst tooling down the road powered by solar panels, it stays a cool 75 degrees, poochy could like that.

 

[Partsman]

My method is dog in truck , no stops on the way . If I have to make stops , dog stays home .

 

[Gonzo chris]

My method is dog in truck , no stops on the way . If I have to make stops , dog stays home .

Personally I agree, I've seen too many stories with people stealing dogs , id worry too much

 

[HeyBales]

From manual under Anti-Theft Alarm System section.
Will point 3 be a problem? Test at home before too much work done or money spent.
Armed is when you lock with the remote.
Lock with door supposedly not Armed - but it seems it may still be.

HOW DOES THE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SYSTEM WORK

When armed, the anti-theft alarm is triggered in any of the following ways:

• If someone opens a door, the liftgate or the hood without a correctly coded key or remote control.
• If you turn the power on without a correctly coded key.
• If the interior sensors detect movement inside your vehicle.
• If the inclination sensors detect an attempt to raise your vehicle.
• If someone disconnects your vehicle's 12V battery or the battery backup alarm.

If the anti-theft alarm is triggered, the alarm horn sounds for 30 seconds and the turn signals flash for 5 minutes.
Any further attempts to carry out one of the above sounds the alarm again.

 

[Maverickman74]

I've done that, too. But the risk of theft is much higher. I'm looking to avoid leaving the keys in the truck.

I feel like the dogs take care of that issue. I also have no intention to leave my truck in a area where theft is likely with my dogs in it for more than 15-25 min or so. Also my dogs are Batman and Harvey Dent, not exactly a combination you want to upset smashing a window or fishing for a unlock. It wont be a pleasant ride. Unless the car thief is going to murder my 2 dogs in broad daylight, in a short time frame. Im sure as hell not parking somewhere that that sort of thing happens. Also you can throw a hat over the keys so they arent easily visible in the column.

 

[HeyBales]

They do make side window mounted exhaust fans you could consider if you wanted to. Narrow full width fans that you roll the window up to lock into place (thus easily removable). Usually solar powered. Doubt you want to go that far, but would be an option to ensure some air exchange/flow.

The described running the AC is going to be better than just bringing in possibly warm air.
Even recirc does bring in some outside air - after all humans are kinda expected to be in there potentially for long periods of time - so issues related to AC on and windows up would effect drivers first.

 

[Maverickman74]

Just remember nothing is full proof. Besides heat or cold, I would be deeply concerned over possible carbon monoxide, or fire (over heating) from vehicle sitting. Also if traveling you may not be aware of any ordinances or laws prohibiting this. Then again not sure if there is any. Just don't think it's wise to leave a child in a running vehicle nor an animal.

• Overheating engines: Lack of coolant, radiator leaks, and other factors may cause an engine to overheat. Uncontrolled heat under the hood can lead to a fire. The best thing to do if your engine overheats is to stop the car in a safe place. Continuing to drive could cause permanent damage to the engine, as well as being an increasing fire hazard.

I think time frame is the more important factor here. Who leaves their dogs all day wasting fuel? Not me. Sure lots of bad things can happen but living life in fear of statistics is just not something im willing to do.

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