Any biker knows that riding a motorcycle is the closest thing to flying. Riding melts away anxiety and worries, allowing one to glide along the road, feeling nothing but a thrill for life itself. Because dogs get the same kind of rush, as proven by their love for sticking their heads out of car windows, many bikers feel inclined to bring their canines along for the ride.
Some people may not be comfortable with the sight of dogs riding on the back of motorcycles, but a sensible biker would take as many precautions as possible to ensure that their dog is safe on their motorcycle. There is a growing market for biker dogs with safe motorcycle-specific carriers, dog seats, sidecars, trailers, and even doggy helmets, leather jackets, and goggles.
Carriers, such as T-Bags, can be strapped securely to the luggage rack on the motorcycle and give bikers the peace of mind in knowing that their dog is safely enjoying the ride. For bigger dogs and more experienced small dogs, there is the Beast Rider, a custom built doggy seat with a harness system. Some people say that sidecars and trailers are the safest places to put dogs, especially larger ones. In these motorcycle additions, dogs are likely to be more comfortable, because they feel like they’re riding a convertible rather than on the back of a motorcycle.
Motorcycles are not for every dog. Some pooches may get scared upon hearing motorcycles, and others won’t like sitting on a fast bike for an extended period of time. As for the rest, they love being seen cruising on a motorcycle in a leather jacket and goggles. Bikers who are unsure about whether or not their dog would take to riding usually introduce their pup to it slowly, carefully, and gently. A good method is to strap the dog in its designated seat when the motorcycle is turned off, and observing its behavior. Is the dog comfortable? Scared? Trying to jump out? If the dog is visibly afraid (breathing heavily, crying, or shaking), chances are it would not like riding at all. Once the dog seems to be relaxed in its seat, turn the motorcycle on and watch its reaction to the sudden noise. Is it startled? Afraid? Indifferent? Sometimes it takes a little persuasion to make dogs realize that riding is actually fun. Riding around the block at an easy pace (while keeping the dog under close observation) would help the dog understand what motorcycles are all about. At this point, the dog may decide whether or not it likes to ride.
If the dog is on board, excellent! Now, it’s time to ensure that the motorcycle is equipped to carry a dog safely. If using a pet carrier, never let the door face the exhaust system, for the air pollution could affect the dog’s breathing. If using trailers or sidecars, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that it is hitched to the motorcycle properly. If using a custom backseat, fasten it as tightly and securely as possible to the back of the motorcycle. Before taking the pup on a ride, it would be a good idea to perform a routine check to make sure that everything is hooked up correctly. When it comes to a precious pup’s safety, one can never be too careful.
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