I hate the idea of them being in the open too. not only is it dangerous, but they get dirty and wet and things could fly into the bed and hit them. I did enjoy the view though. I've seen big ole rotts in the back of trucks too. I would NEVER EVER put Princess in the back. I buy cars that suit my dog. I'm looking at a Jeep Wrangler now that I only have the one big dog and I'm wondering if it's big enough for her in the back. I don't need all the room of the Cherokee anymore and I love the wranglers but want something that will be easy for her to get into without a lot of jumping up and down from. I'm still careful not to put her in situations that may injure her other ACL. I know I'm weird, but that's my baby.
She is doing so well almost 6 months after ACL replacement in Fenruary and we run and play and have fun. but it's in the back of my mind a lot with the other leg.