Review on Bushwhacker® Barrier Smaller Restraint Backseat by Michelle Vargas

The installation was a bit difficult. Product comes folded and comes with (1) one sheet of basic instructions with pictures. The details are really lacking. Basically, it works on the same principle as the poles on a small tent or parasol. Each pole cuts (slides) into the other. A right side, a left side and a middle. Seems simple enough - NO! The bars are measured and cut to slip into each other with very little "forgiveness". So if you don't install them properly, you'll be stuck - one side or the other won't fit. A few tips for future buyers: 1) Install the CENTER racks first. The instructions don't mention this - crossing all the poles correctly has turned out to be the best way. I think another reviewer mentioned this and he is 100% right. 2) The instructions say to undo the velcro that holds the sticks in place. Yes that is correct. But be prepared - once you've inserted all the wands, you'll really have to tug on the Velcro to bring it together. It uses strong velcro (which is nice) so the two pieces hold once you put them together. Again, be prepared to pull them hard. 3) Didn't notice this when ordering, but if you look at the picture you can see the mounting bolts are pointing towards the rear seat/load bed. In other words, to the dogs. We were a bit concerned about this - there might just be an accident - the dog got caught on the collar, poked his eye, etc. So before installing it in the car (SUV), we made sure all the mounting bolts were turned down and after inside to the grid. . Makes puffing a bit more challenging, but this way nothing is "presented" or addressed to the pet. 4) After assembling and installing the barrier in the car: the installation will be much easier with two people. One holds in place and the other fixes the straps. The hardware "clamps" that hold the straps in place are strong and tight, but you have to thread the straps into the clamps, hold the clamp open, and then pull on the straps to tighten them. Trying to do it and keeping it is difficult. We had to install two of these, so I wanted to solo one. I have found that the easiest way when working alone is to thread the straps into the clips with enough "slack" to tighten OVER the headrest and then tighten. In general - the product looks solid - it is light, but durable. This appears to provide a secure barrier between (in our case) rear seat and front passengers. We also strap our dog in seat belts which are loosened until the brakes are applied. So the problem is that he has enough seatbelt room to try to get ahead. Hence this barrier. We apologize for the long review - I hope it's helpful.