Details on Amy's dog truck from a SDC post on 11/17/02:

"If you want to use your pickup for a dog truck but occasionally haul large items then you might be interested in the way I designed my 4 hole dog box...

"I installed a piece of angle iron along the top of my cap and on the floor and drilled some holes in it. All of the dog box dividers are made of paneling that connects to the angle iron via quick links. The middle boxes have a little plywood platform so the dogs don't get short-changed due to the wheel well. I can easily take all or part of it apart so that I can use the back for cargo. I also had the glass removed on one side and replaced it with an empty rim on the side where the doors are. I used the existing hole and mounted the doors to pieces of wood connected to strips of iron that run from top to bottom. I did not have to modify the cap. When I want to sell the truck I just have to take the doors off and pop the window back in. I built the doors using window sill material. The metal grate is permanent but there is a slot in front where I can slide in a plexi glass panel or screen.

"I think this is a pretty practical solution for a 'mini musher' like me.

"My holes are about 19X36. I still have a 2' cargo aisle perfect for hauling my bike and gear bag..."

Amy
huskyaddict@yahoo.com

UPDATE 12/12/02- Amy ended up getting rear ended in her dog truck, with the dogs on board- and everyone was OK!!!

"I was stopped at a light and someone hit me going about 30 mph. All the dogs were fine. The rear door of my topper was locked but it popped open on impact. Thank goodness my rear hole was totally enclosed. Also the hook latches popped off of the doors but since I also had the (locked) hinge and hasp the doors stayed shut. The dog box did its job well. Kept the dogs and gear all safe in their own spots. The panels held in place but probably had enough give to cushion the impact."

Click on the pictures below to see the larger image