In September  we were forced to retire our beloved 1996 Subaru Outback and replace it with an economical, gently used sedan. Before long, this new cream puff car took on the look of a dog taxi, on the inside at least. Mud and dog hair inspired us to try the As Seen on TV Pet Rider, a simple and inexpensive cover meant to protect the back seat of your car from muddy paws and pet hair (or the occasional accident).

We purchased our Pet Rider at the Christmas Tree Shop in Paramus for $7.99 plus tax (don’t you just love a bargain?). Dog park friends assured me that this was a good price for a great product. A little skeptical, I searched for some on-line reviews. A few customers on Amazon were concerned about the chemical smell wafting off the Pet Rider, so I was attuned to this when I opened the package. The thing did give off a slightly chemical, moth-ball like odor, but I was determined to get my $7.99 plus tax worth, so after a lame attempt to get the existing dog hair off the seats, I “installed” it.

The cover simply loops over the rear headrests, and seat belt buckles push through a Velcro opening. The material is stiff and yes, has a chemical smell. I left the windows cracked, thinking that perhaps I should have purchased some car air fresheners at the Christmas Tree Shop as well (only $2.99 for a three pack!). But it’s easy enough to remove and throw in the trunk when transporting humans.

Of course, there’s no way to protect the car’s console from Henry’s muddy paws when he wants to help navigate (don’t tell the ASPCA). So if you’re willing to put up with the smell for a few days (or longer) the Pet Rider is certainly effective in keeping your seats clean.

Next up: Wacky walk’r leash (as seen in Real Simple magazine).