Well it didn't take me long to find out that there are several really good reasons. The first one is personally connected to the close call I recently had.
In this particular instance another runner was running toward me with one dog running by his side on a leash and another smaller one riding in a pet stroller. Good idea for everyone to get their exercise I thought. Except, in this situation with a narrow sidewalk I sensed potential danger so I stopped running and pulled my dog over as best I could. Unfortunately the other owner didn't stop, compelling my dog to take a defensive posture against this approaching army. The end result was me being almost pulled off my feet as my dog tried to protect himself from what he saw as an imminent threat.
In spite of that negative encounter, I do think pet strollers are ideal for runners who want to take their small dogs along - with safety first in mind of course :)
While everyone isn't a runner or jogger, many pet owners like to take long walks that would wear out a small dog - at least if he had to walk the whole way. My previous dog was small and whenever she felt she had walked enough, she'd suddenly lie down and wouldn't budge! I often had to end up carrying her home - this was before strollers became popular.
Dog strollers are not just for walks, they can also be very handy under these circumstances:
- Pets with medical conditions, have failing sight, or have gone blind
- Brachycephalic pets that can have breathing difficulties
- Disabled pets, or those recovering from injury or surgical procedures
- Older dogs with joint issues
- Taking pets to the vet
- Two small dogs taking turns walking and riding
- Climates that are too hot or cold for fragile pets
- Walking in rural areas that present dangers from wild animals
Some owners even like to use pet strollers for mall shopping, or to go to other public places that might otherwise be off limits.
In the end, it really all boils down to owners wanting to get their pets out and about while keeping them safe and secure.
So what's the best dog stroller for your pet's needs? To save you some tiring leg work, I strolled about and came up with three that I would consider very good choices:
Some of the product criteria I looked at included:
- Construction quality
- Easy / quick assembly
- Ease of use
- Folding mechanism (one hand fold up, or Easy fold up)
- Size (vs pet weight)
- Zippers or other reliable closures
- Cup holders for beverages
- Storage compartment for extra stuff like pick-up bags, treats and leashes
- Number of wheels
- Good ventilation, sun protection, waterproof?
- All terrain such as dog parks or smooth surface street use
- Accommodates one or more dogs?
- Value for money
Dog Stroller for Small Dogs Up To 30 lbs.
This dog stroller, according to actual users, performs well on all terrains which indicates a high level of sturdiness - joggers or runners will definitely appreciate that observation. It accommodates dogs up to thirty pounds, the construction is solid with the added stability of 8-inch double front wheels including shock absorbers. Canopy cover is waterproof so no worries about unexpected showers!
Ease of assembly, ample viewing area for pet also providing good ventilation, large storage compartment for take along necessities and fashionable design round out the attractive features of this stroller that add up to a very good product for
the price.No-Zip Small Dog Stroller
For those of you who prefer not to deal with zippers, this one's for you, especially helpful if your dog's a quick escape artist. Once inside, pets will love the large viewing area and even more so the front bar where they can elevate themselves and not miss a thing. This No Zip Pet Stroller
has some nice features for owners that include easy assembly and the ability to open and close the canopy with one hand - a real plus if you're in a hurry or your pet needs to get out quickly for a potty break! A roomy storage area also comes in handy if you have to pick something up while you're out.Shock absorbers on the front make for a smoother ride and rear brakes assure you stroll safely. Overall a sturdy product including the important desirable features.
Sporty Jogger Pet Stroller
This pet stroller
has so much going for it, but let's start with the basics: roomy enough to accommodate two small dogs weighing approximately 14 pounds each or one dog up to 30 pounds since the cab height is substantial.
Some of the best features: sturdy solid construction, 3-large-wheel format makes it rugged enough for all terrains; users report that it's a piece of cake to push; no sweat assembly; 4 interior tethers, folds up in a flash, upper mesh window just in front of handle - see rear view image above - easy for owner to keep an eye on pet.
If airline traveling with your small pet, the stroller folds with just the click of a button for gate checking so your pet has more space and freedom until you board him in a smaller carrier. Click here to see the current best price on this stroller.
"outdoor"