Transforming Canine Adoption During a Pandemic into a Cargo Bike Expedition: Insights Gleaned from Sharing the Journey with Four-Legged Friends
In the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, feeling alone and isolated, I did what so many others did - I adopted a pair of senior fur buddies, Daisy Mae and Lacey. With five bikes crammed into my small pad, these pooches couldn't avoid the cycling life, thankfully, they didn't seem too bothered. So, I set out to incorporate them into my two-wheeled world and share the lessons I learned.
The Great Bicycle Encounter
Being rescues, I had no idea about their previous lives - had they seen a bike before? But with no choice but to get acquainted, the bikes came out, and the girls showed interest in more pressing matters: treats and walks.
Deciding to give them a ride, I fetched a used two-kid trailer and made some adjustments to make it safe and comfortable for our canine travelers. After snapping on their harnesses and leashes, I rolled the trailer into the living room, where both engaged in sniffing and treat-filled exploration. Getting the hang of it, they climbed inside and were delightfully rewarded for their bravery.
However, the maiden voyage didn't go as smoothly as hoped, as Lacey, the more daring of the pair, attempted to escape. Thankfully, a quick adjustment and loving reassurance sealed the deal, and we ventured out for a short ride.
Ditching the Trailer for a Cargo Bike Adventure
Despite the trailer's initial success, I knew there had to be a better solution, so I scoured YouTube for inspiration and discovered a front-loading electric cargo bike. Feeling this would provide a more open and fun experience for us all, we test-rode the bike and loved it.
Assembling a simple and functional setup to secure the dogs in the cargo bucket, a blanket for their comfort, and a rain cover to brave the Seattle rain, the cargo bike soon became our go-to transportation mode. We turned heads everywhere we went, left feeling joyful, and bonded like never before. We even embarked on an epic, overnight bike camping trip.
Bicycling with your Dog: Rules, Regulations, and Best Practices
Five years later and a cross-country move, the cargo bike remains my go-to mode of transportation. Here's a brief rundown of the most frequently asked questions regarding our setup:
Is it legal to ride with a dog like this?
Yes, but be mindful of local rules, regulations, and leash laws.
Has the dog ever tried to jump out?
Yes, once when I handed the reins to a buddy. Luckily, her harness kept her secure. Since then, no issues.
What do you do in the summer/winter/inclement weather?
I outfit the bike with a rain cover in wet weather, avoid hot temps when possible, and bundle up our furry friend in cold conditions.
What about water/snacks/supplies for the dog?
Plenty of space in the cargo bike for all the essentials.
How do you know that the dog likes it?
Based on her eagerness to ride and contented snoozes, it's clear she enjoys the experience.
Do we need any protective equipment for the dog?
You can consider dog goggles, but Daisy Mae wasn't a fan of the ones I tried.
Transporting senior dogs safely and comfortably on a bike using a cargo bike requires thoughtful preparation and modifications. By choosing the right bike, making safety adjustments, and following best practices, you can create a memorable experience for both you and your furry companion.
Happy trails!
As we continued our journey, I found that our favorite hobbies started blending - home-and-garden projects, pets, and our new lifestyle centered around the cargo bike.
On weekends, Daisy Mae and Lacey would stroll around the garden, dig in the soil, and help me plant new flowers, making it a true home-and-garden lifestyle adventure for all of us.
