Are Pet Bicycle Carriers or Strollers for You?
By: Linda Cain.
The bicycle -- what a wonderful, freeing mode of transportation. The first bicycle was invented in Europe in the nineteenth century, and today it is the world's most popular vehicle. The bicycle allowed travel that is 3 times more energy efficient than walking, and 3-4 times as fast as walking. Bicycles and horse buggies were the two mainstays of private transportation just prior to the invention of the automobile, and the grading of smooth roads in the late 19th century was stimulated by the wide use of these devices. Bicycles are a pragmatic, functional, and efficient component of a healthy urban transportation system. They are simple and elegant machines that attract just about every kid of all ages, from 2 to 92. Bicycling has many health benefits and does not directly contribute to global warming or environmental pollution. It is a wonderful sport that brings health and joy to millions of people everywhere.
Have you wanted to travel with your dog during your bike rides but found the whole idea too overwhelming? There are several ways of enjoying your bike and your pet at the same time, but some are more safe than others.
With large dogs, you could bike walk your dog -- you on your bicycle and your dog on a leash. This method gives both you and your dog exercise, but what is the risk? You've increased the width that automobile drivers need to avoid -- not advised on busy streets. Also your safety is now not only in your hands, but also in the paws of your dog. Are you ready for your dog quickly running after a stray cat? And what about your dog's safety? Be careful not to let your dog run too long on a hard surface. This can cause joint problems and possibly bleeding of the paws. There is a lot at stake and a lot of uncertainties when you bike-walk with your pet.
Even more risky would be to allow your dog to run ahead of your bicycle without a leash. Your safety is no longer in the paws of your pet, but there are leash laws in many parts of this country. You may believe your dog is very well trained, but there are so many things that could go wrong if you let your dog run loose.
For a much safer method of bicycling with your small to medium pets, try a pet bicycle trailer. Some pet bicycle trailers can accommodate even larger pets up to 115 pounds. With one of these pet bicycle trailers attached to your bicycle, you can maintain your active lifestyle and get your pet outside, too. When you go to the park to give your dog a little fun, take him there in a bicycle trailer -- you get exercise on the trip there and back, without tiring your dog out along the way. You can put any small to medium pet in a pet bicycle trailer. It might take some getting used to though, and it might take some training for your more high strung pets. Two high quality bicycle trailers are the Trek'R and the Burley Tail Wagon.
Here are some precautions when using a pet bicycle trailer. Your dog should always be secured with the safety leash adjusted to the correct length. Do not exceed the weight capacity of your pet bicycle trailer. Check the inflation of your bicycle and trailer tires before every bicycle ride. Check the connection of the trailer to your bicycle before you take off. Riding with the pet bicycle trailer increases your braking distance and it may affect your ability to control your bike. Practice in a safe area before riding with the pet bicycle trailer in high-traffic areas. Always wear your safety helmet when riding.
There is one more way to enjoy your bike rides and your pets, too -- a pet carrier that fits on your bicycle's handle bars. This is only recommended for small pets up to around 15 pounds -- your pet bike carrier will specify the exact weight limit. Now you can have your dog share in the fun of a bike ride. Bike ride with your pet in front of you with a center-mounted bicycle pet carrier. You're closer to your pet and can better enjoy his company with a bicycle pet carrier, like the Pet Cruiser Sport Carrier and the Pet Cruiser Wicker Cruiser.
As with every mode of travel, there are precautions when using handlebar mounted pet carriers. Never leave your pet unattended or alone in the basket while yiour bike is resting on a kickstand. Never leave animals confined and unattended in direct sunlight or where there is a risk of overheating. Be sure to secure your pet with the harness. Do NOT speed. The rider must wear an approved helmet. Do not ride when it is wet outside. Do not ride at night. Conduct a pre-ride check before riding. Do not exceed weight capacity limit specified for your carrier. Do not install safety straps in any way that will interfere with brake cables, brake levers, or gear control shifters of your bicycle.
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