Today’s automotive market is a dog-eat-dog world, so in order to boost interest in its Element sport-utility, Honda created a package that caters to your canine companions.

The Element Dog Friendly, unveiled at the 2009 New York auto show, adds features designed to safely and comfortably carry dogs. A custom pet bed with an elevated platform is installed in the cargo area, which also sports a pet restraint system (as does the second row of seats).  The Dog Friendly package also adds features like a spill-resistant water bowl, an extendible loading ramp, and a 12-volt fan over the cargo area.

Although it’s currently a show vehicle, Honda is intent on launching the Dog Friendly package on the Element in 2009. A finalized package, which may include most of these touches, should appear in showrooms this fall.