Safety tips for Biking with Your Dog
SAFETY TIPS FOR BIKING WITH YOUR DOG
by Erma RW - February 2, 2020
Biking with your dog is fun but it can also prove dangerous if not done with care. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your runs carefree and safely:
- The leash is meant to be attached to the bicycle and should never be held in one’s hand.
- Steer clear of congested areas. In rush-stricken places, people are usually so focused on cars that they end up ignoring pedestrians. Dogs are even smaller so you have to stay extra vigilant and so it’s better to avoid such areas altogether.
- Avoid biking during peak traffic hours. Close to 9am and 5pm are the busiest times of the day. Manage your biking schedule so it doesn’t coincide with these times.
- Avoid the sun as much as possible. Close to noon, the pavements scorch up too much and can be uncomfortable for the dog unless it’s wearing booties. Try these RUFFWEAR booties for a comfortable ride and an elegant look.
- Do not exhilarate your dog too much. Remember, Biking with your dog is not a bike race against your dog. It simply means your dog can either just WALK, or RUN with you, whichever your Dog wants to do and is capable of doing.
- Always keep the dog in your field of view and monitor his/her condition so you don’t end up overstraining your dog. It’s also possible that the leash has broken off and the dog’s been left behind. Avoid this situation with the WalkyDog bike leash and its military grade material.
- Stop for water and rest, as frequently as you can.
- Never attach a collar to your dog with a bike leash. The tugging on his neck could prove extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous in extreme cases. Here are some excellent HARNESS options.
- To keep the dog safe, it’s paramount that you keep your own safety in mind as well! Never go out on rides without your helmet. Here are some excellent helmet options on Amazon.
