Devoted to the auto industry – builders to enthusiasts

About 30 years ago, Gina Spadafori and I were on the staff of The Hornet, the student newspaper at California State University, Sacramento.

I don't know Gina anymore, but she has a great career in journalism, specializing in writing about pets. She co-authors the syndicated column, Pet Connection, and she has written several animal-focused books.

With several other journalists, Spadafori also has one of the most unique automotive-related web sites I've seen. It's called DogCars.com, and the site has just selected its 2007 DogCar of the Year.

The winner is the Honda Element. DogCars.com gives The Element its highest "paw ratings" based on several attributes: vehicles with seats that fold flat or are easily removable; ample cargo space, wide, square tail sections to maximize cargo-carrying; door/window locks; all-wheel drive or four-wheel driver and high-ground clearance.

DogCars.com selected its favorites for 2007 in several additional categories. It's a fun site for any driver who has a passion for dogs and like to bring them along when they drive.