Author: Linda Cain
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 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 take even more risks by allowing your dog to run ahead of you
without a leash. This would eliminate the problem of your safety being
in the paws of your pet, but it brings up all sorts of other issues,
like laws. It is unlawful in most areas to allow your dog to run freely
without a leash, no matter how well trained he is.
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.
Another way to enjoy your bike rides and your pets, too is a pet
carrier that fits on your bicycle's handle bars. This is 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 dog share in the fun of your bike ride. You
can bike ride with your pet in front of you with a center-mounted
bicycle pet carrier. You are 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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