Wow it is hard to phrase some questions in the small title space!
What I am trying to accomplish is to use the 3rd row seat but to fold down the middle seat. I know the middle seat is required but wondered if any owners have made any sort of brace to replace the need for the middle seat being up.
If not, I am working on an idea and will post results if they are worthy.
Thanks!
(I have a big shepard that likes to ride in the center and 2 ankle biter kids that love the rear faceing seat)

 

This is going to be just something custom. My concern is that you will probably be able to make something work but what about safety. If there was a crash the backward sitters are going to die.

 

If there's a frontal crash, they'd at least say "wow, Gee Whiz", I think.

I would just take out the 2nd seat bottom cushions and replace that with a platform the dog might be comfortable on. Leave the 2nd seat back. I think that solves it.

 

It's amazing how much effort people put into pleasing people (and non-people) who don't even contribute to the cost of owning the car!