Are Pet Bicycle Carriers or Strollers for You? | Pets and Animals

By LindaCain
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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 do a fast version of walking the dog -- you on your bicycle and your dog on a leash. Yes, this method gives both you and your dog exercise, but at what risk? You've increased the width that automobile drivers need to avoid, which may be fine on low speed, less travelled roads. But this is not advised on busier streets. Also your safety is now in your hands as well as the paws of your dog. Are you prepared for your dog quickly veering off track after a stray cat? What about your dog's safety? Be careful not to run your pet too long on a hard surface. This can not only cause joint problems, but also bleeding of the paws. There is a lot at stake and a lot of uncertainties when you bike-jog with your pet.

You could allow your dog to run ahead of your bicycle without a leash. Your safety is no longer in the paws of your pet, but not only are there safety issues with regard to your pet, but also there are leash laws in many parts of this country. No matter how well trained your dog is, there are so many things that could go wrong if you let your dog run unleashed.

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.

There are precautions when using a pet bicycle trailer. When riding, your pet 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 ride. Check the connection of the trailer to your bicycle before your bicycle ride. Riding with the pet bicycle trailer increases your braking distance and may affect your ability to control your bicycle. Practice in a safe area before riding with the trailer in high-traffic areas. Always wear a safety helmet when riding.

Another way to enjoy your bike rides and your small pets is a pet carrier that fits on your bicycle's handle bars -- only recommended for small pets up to maybe 15 pounds; your specific pet bicycle carrier will specify the exact weight limit. With a pet bicycle carrier you can have your small pet share in the fun of your bike ride. You can bike ride with your pet in front of you with a bicycle pet carrier. You are closer to your pet and can better enjoy his company. Two high quality pet bicycle carriers are 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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