Bicycles provide a wonderful and freeing mode of transportation. The bicycle was first invented in Europe in the nineteenth century. Today it is the world’s most popular vehicle. Bicycles allowed for easy travel -- they are 3 times more energy efficient than walking, and 3-4 times as fast as walking. Bicycles and horse buggies were the two biggest modes of private transportation just before the automobile was invented. Bicycles are pragmatic, functional, and efficient. They are a big component of a healthy urban transportation system. The bicycle is a simple and elegant machine, attracting kids of all ages and adults. Bicycling offers many health benefits, and it does not directly contribute to global warming or environmental pollution. It is a wonderful, freeing 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 run your dog. That is, you would be on your bicycle and your dog would be on a leash. This method gives both you and your dog exercise, but is there a risk? Now you’ve increased the width that automobile drivers need to avoid -- please don’t do this on busy streets. Also your safety is now dependant on your abilities, but also in the behavior of your dog. Are you prepared for your dog quickly running after a stray cat? What about your dog’s safety? Be careful letting your dog run too long on a hard surface. This can cause joint problems and possibly boody paws. There is a lot at stake and a lot of uncertainties when you bike-run with your dog.
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.
Please, note these precautions when using a pet bicycle trailer: When riding, your dog should always be secured with the safety leash adjusted to the correct length. Do not exceed the recommended weight capacity of your pet bicycle trailer. Check tire inflation before every ride. Carefully check the connection of the trailer to your bicycle before riding. Be aware that riding with the trailer increases your braking distance and may affect your ability to control the bicycle. Thoroughly practice in a safe area before riding with the trailer in high-traffic areas. Always wear a 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.
Here are some of the precautions when using a handlebar mounted pet carrier. Never leave your pet unattended or alone in the pet carrier. Never leave your animal confined or unattended in direct sunlight or anytime there is a risk of overheating. Be sure to secure your pet with the harness. Do not speed while riding your bicycle with your pet on board. Wear an approved bicycle helmet. Do not ride when it is raining or when the roads are wet. Do not ride after dark. Check everything over before riding. Do not exceed the weight capacity limit specified by your bicycle carrier. When installing safety straps, be sure they do not interfere with brake cables, brake levers, or gear control shifters of your bicycle.
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