When the weather finally starts to get warm here
in Colorado (during the last couple weeks of May), my three-pound Maltese,
Daisy, and I love to go bike riding together. One of my favorite pet inventions
of all time (and I have seen a lot over the years) is the wonderful Sport
Cruiser Pet Bicycle Basket! This incredibly clever product allows
me to safely and stylishly bicycle with my little best friend.
I chose the cute lime green color basket since my mountain bike is green and silver and it matches just perfectly. I’m not a very “handy” person, but it took me only about 20 minutes to assemble my new basket and attach the universal bracket (included with the basket) to my bike’s handlebars. Because the bracket is designed so well (made in Germany), the basket fits very securely and does not bounce or move when we are riding. Plus, the basket is very attractive and has lots of extra pockets to store my keys, cell phone, snacks, doggie treats, Daisy's pink Handi-Drink portable water bowl, my digital camera (the one I used to take the bike pictures you see here) and a bottle of water. Even though the basket is padded on the inside, I line the basket bottom with soft dog carrier blankets. The blankies provide an even more warm, comfy ride for Daisy and I can use them to wrap around her if there is wind or a chill in the air. The basket also includes a built in strap that attaches to Daisy’s harness, keeping her safely inside the basket. You will need a harness for you dog to ride, as the strap must NEVER be attached to a collar.
My Daisy absolutely loved her very first ride in the basket! From what I've been told, most dogs have to be persuaded that riding in a bike basket is a good idea! However, my brave Daisy rode in her new basket for the first time like she had been bike riding her whole life- with zero fear! If you happen to have a more apprehensive little pooch, I suggest first placing them in the basket and doling out some yummy little dog treats, next, make sure he or she is comfortable and warm before you start wheeling around. Once they are familiar with their new basket, start adding a slow amount of movement. Gently walk your bicycle around and around, while softly talking to them and praising them (it also helps to offer more treats during this process). Once your pup is comfortable with the new movements and sensations, give one more treat and then get on and start biking! Don’t forget to bring more treats and water for when you take a break along your journey.
Adding to the fun and excitement while we ride along together, we experience lots of waves, happy greetings, smiles, and even squeals of delight from most passersby! People literally come off of their porches and strain necks in their cars to see Daisy. If you are not in a social mood, don’t go bike riding with your little dog, since it will inevitably attract a ton of attention! On some of our bike rides, we encounter an unexpected rainstorm, complete with hail. No problem for Daisy, as I simply stop my bike and attach the included protective shade, which attaches quickly and easily. With the shade, she stays protected from the hail and rain. The shade also comes in handy for shading your pup from the sun's harsh rays.
Of course, being the Mom of a little fashionista like Daisy, I have to dress her up each time we go out riding. I usually choose a jacket, sweater or cute little tee shirt and matching topknot bow. The outfits not only look adorable, but also provide Daisy with extra warmth with all the wind that we encounter (especially when riding downhill). Plus, our neighbors just love to see the little “dressy diva dog” as they call her. Our bike rides are something that we both look forward to and it gives me great exercise and we both get fresh air and memorable experiences. All this writing about our fun bike trips has made me want to go riding again! It is a balmy 75 degrees today here in Colorado as I write this and just lovely weather for a doggie bike ride. The beautiful mountains and trails are calling and Daisy and I are ready to go now!
Wishing you and your pup many safe, happy bicycle excursions!
Ideas, Questions Or Comments?
If you have an idea for an
article or would like to submit an article that you have personally
written, we would love to hear from you! We're always looking to help
our customers and also love to suggest new ways of savoring life with
your furry best friend.
|
