About Pet Strollers

While pet strollers may seem like a frivolous item used only to pamper your pet, they are actually quite useful in a number of situations. They are also available in a wide variety of styles, sizes, colors and even funky prints so your pet will be both comfortable and fashionable as he tags along in his little wheeled tram. Depending on the size, style and features, pet strollers can run anywhere from $40 to $200 or more.

  1. Features

    • Pet strollers can feature three or four small wheels topped by a compartment in which to house your pet. The top compartment is usually some sort of rectangular basket in which your pet can lay or sit. Canvas is a popular material for the top of the stroller, which makes it durable and easy to maintain. Some strollers may have a full top and zippered mesh screen, much like a tent. Some strollers will be collapsible so they can be folded up for transport or when not in use. Still others have a lot of extras, such as the ability to turn into a shoulder pet carrier or car seat or attachments for food or water bowls.

    Size

    • Pet strollers are available in a number of different sizes to accommodate a variety of pets. Some of the smallest can range about 15 to 20 inches long with capacity to hold 10 pounds. Larger strollers can carry pets that weigh up to 150 pounds and run 30 or more inches long. Smaller strollers are ideal for small cats and dogs as well as rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas and other teeny creatures.

    Types

    • Some strollers are specifically designed for faster activities, such as jogging, while others are definitely for more leisurely walks. Those that are meant for speed usually have three wheels instead of four for easier maneuvering. Another type looks more like a dog or cat carrier on wheels, with a rectangular enclosure, constructed of canvas and mesh and held erect with wire bars. These are ideal for airports and other longer trips. Just like some baby carriages are designed for twins, pet strollers, too, come in varieties that feature two separate compartments to haul around more than one pet at the same time. Some of the fancier strollers will play on the pampering aspect and be outfitted with pink, frilly lace or animal print. Canvas strollers usually come in blue, red, black and sometimes tan.

    Benefits

    • Pet strollers are ideal for pets that are elderly, ill or unable to walk. Pets can relax, and even sleep, in the stroller while you ramble about or take a long walk. They get the fresh air, sights and sounds of the great outdoors without the burden of having to keep up with you. Strollers also keep pets contained, safe and out of the sun and other elements.

    Misconceptions

    • Just because your pet is in a stroller doesn't mean the pet will immediately be welcomed to places pets are not allowed. This holds true for supermarkets and other food stores or places that specifically do not allow pets unless they are service animals. Pet strollers may also become a hassle on public transportation if bus rules state the strollers must be folded up during transport. This means you will be stuck with a cumbersome stroller at your side and pet in your lap.