How to restrain a dog in a minivan?

[keri1292]

We're going to be getting a dog in Nov. and I'm already researching harness options. I have a 99 Windstar. 2 kids in 3rd row. 1 kiddo in drivers side captain seat. I don't want the dog in the cargo area ~ Doesn't seem safe for the dog and where would I put my stuff (strollers, diaper bags, duffle bags, cameras, beach stuff, etc)
This web page shows a d-ring type thing hooked to the seat belt...
http://www.immioutdoors.com/petbuckle/products_harness.htm
However, we're getting a lab that will grow to be about 70lbs. I can't imagine the dog having any room to sit on the captains seat or the floor even. The poor thing wouldn't be able to lay down either. We go to the beach about every other day but, it's less than a mile away and the pooch can be uncomfortable for that short of a trip. It's a 4 hour drive to my parents that we take 1x a month that I'm most concerned about.
I'm thinking about removing the other captains seat and using the d-ring around the bars that you hook the seat to. KWIM? Any thoughts on safety? Anyone do this?

[papooses]

I have a seatcover on my front passenger seat & buckle both our dogs into the seatbelt in their IMMI or Ruff Rider harnesses there -- not the easiest thing in the world, but it's the best alternative I've got since the tether anchor is used in the 3rd row & there aren't any cargo hooks (we only do this when all of us are traveling a long distance, otherwise we use the Jeep to take the dogs to the vet)