Dog guard fitting in Exeter
Professional dog guard fitting services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-£85
Typical Duration
30-60 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Dog guard fitted to create safe barrier between boot and cabin. Keeps your dog in the load area while giving them freedom to move around.
Space and Safety
Your dog loves car journeys but you don't love them scrambling over the seats every time you brake or turn. Dog guards give them the whole boot to move around in while keeping them safely separated from you.
💡 Pro tip: Guards are perfect for dogs who get anxious in crates but still need containing while you drive. Best of both worlds - space and separation.
Proper vs Poor Fitting
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| No gaps, dog can't squeeze through | Gaps at sides or bottom |
| Firm pressure fit or bolted secure | Wobbles when dog leans on it |
| Easy quick-release for removal | Stuck in place, nightmare to remove |
| Headrests properly positioned | Headrests bent or damaged |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Service
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Check your car type and guard compatibility |
| Adjustment | Size guard to your vehicle's exact dimensions |
| Installation | Secure guard between seats and roof/boot |
| Testing | Push test to ensure strength and stability |
| Training | Show you removal and refitting process |
📦 You're Left With
- Securely fitted dog guard
- No gaps for pets to escape through
- Knowledge of easy removal when needed
- Safe separation between boot and cabin
Pricing Guide
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Small hatchback | 30-45 mins | £60-£85 |
| Estate car | 45-60 mins | £60-£85 |
| SUV/4x4 | 45-60 mins | £60-£85 |
Based on £60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Assumes compatible guard purchased.
Perfect For...
✅ Daily dog owners - regular car journeys with pets
✅ Large dogs - need more space than crates provide
✅ Multiple dogs - travel together without crate restrictions
✅ Boot access needed - regular shopping/cargo with dog in car
Why Choose Us for Dog guard fitting in Exeter?
Secure barrier between boot and seats
Stops dogs entering cabin area
Adjusted to fit your vehicle
Quick release for easy removal
What to Expect
Step 1: Compatibility Check
I verify your guard type will work with your car. Not all universal guards fit all vehicles - headrest spacing, roof line, and seat design all affect fit.
Step 2: Adjustment & Fitting
Guard adjusted to your car's specific dimensions. Positioned securely between rear seats and roof or boot area. All tension points tightened to create solid barrier.
Step 3: Testing & Demo
Push test - I lean on it to verify it won't move when your dog does the same. Then demonstrate quick-release system so you can remove it yourself when you need the space.
🔧 DIY Tips
Fitting your own dog guard? Here's how to get it secure:
🔧 Tools you'll need
- Tape measure
- Your vehicle handbook
- Someone to help (makes adjustment easier)
📏 Measuring before purchase
- Width between headrest posts
- Floor to roof height
- Depth available behind rear seats
- Check if rear seats fold (affects mounting options)
🔧 Installation steps
- Remove rear headrests (most guards)
- Position guard feet behind/below rear seat
- Extend vertical supports to roof height
- Refit headrests through guard mesh
- Adjust width to eliminate side gaps
- Apply pressure to create secure fit
- Tighten all adjustment points
⚠️ Common DIY mistakes
- Not removing headrests first (can't get proper fit)
- Leaving gaps at edges (dogs squeeze through)
- Under-tightening (guard wobbles)
- Over-tightening (damages headrest posts or roof lining)
💡 Pro trick: Before buying a "universal" guard, check online forums for your specific car model. Other owners will tell you which guards actually fit properly - saves buying one that doesn't work.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🐕 Two dogs better than one? Often yes - they entertain each other during journeys and stay calmer. Guard gives them space to sit together or apart as they prefer.
Alternative options? If a guard doesn't suit your car or needs, consider boot crates (foldable, removable) or harness restraints (attach to seatbelts). Different solutions for different situations.
Guard plus crate? Some people use both - guard to separate boot area, then crate within that space for extra containment. Depends on your dog's temperament and your available space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of dog guard is best for my car?
Depends on your vehicle type. Estate cars and SUVs work best with headrest-mounted guards. Hatchbacks often need universal adjustable guards. I can advise on what will fit your specific make and model.
Can I still fold my rear seats with guard fitted?
Usually no - most guards need to be removed to fold seats. But removal takes 2-3 minutes once you know how. Some more expensive guards have hinged sections for partial seat folding.
Will my dog be safe in an accident with just a guard?
Guards stop dogs climbing forward but don't fully restrain them in crashes. For maximum protection, use a crate or crash-tested harness. Guards are great for preventing distraction while driving though.
How do I clean a dog guard?
Most are metal mesh or bars - just wipe down with damp cloth. Take it out occasionally to clean properly and check the car upholstery behind it. Dog hair gets everywhere.
Can I fit it myself or do I need help?
You can DIY if you're confident, but having two people makes it much easier - one to hold, one to adjust. I'll fit it properly and show you how to remove/refit it yourself for future.
Dog guard fitting Also Available In:
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