I just found this great device and wish I’d had it when I was living in my van before. However, it’s still not too late. I get pretty chilly these days - especially when it’s raining outside!

This is actually a 12-volt warming pad for a dog. It’s supposed to be used for dogs that you leave in your car when you rent a comfy hotel room and can’t bring them inside. But if you’re living in your car and trying to stay warm, or even if you travel on cold roads and might get stranded, at only $55 or so, this is something you might consider a piece of survival gear to keep in your trunk! The official description says:

Whether you use it in your dog crate, dog trailer, or even your back seat, your dog will enjoy the Pooch Pal Waterproof Heating Pad — during overnight stays at hotels, travel during cold fall and winter days, or after a chilly duck or pheasant hunt. It’s also great for a cold duck boat or as a heated seat in your deer stand! It only draws 15 watts of power, so you can safely use it all night long. Once plugged in to your vehicle’s 12 volt outlet or cigarette lighter, it quickly reaches 105-108 degrees F and will maintain that temperature until unplugged.

Dimensions — 11″ X 22″ with 14 ft. heavy duty cord. ONLY $54.95 plus shipping.

I say, if you’re looking for an alternative to burning propane or other dangerous devices in a vehicle that might suffocate you (candles, stoves, charcol), consider this heating pad. No, you won’t be toasty warm, but you won’t freeze if you combine it with a good sleeping bag or lots of blankets. 108 degrees? Very toasty!! And, if you don’t mind carrying a battery to the ball game with you, you could probably use it to sit on during those really cold football games!!

Santa? IF you’re out there, I want TWO for Christmas - one for me and one for my dog!!