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Pet Stroller Buying Guide

 

To help you select the best pet stroller for you and your pet, here are some tips we've learned from the sale and service of thousands of pet strollers.  Please browse the information on this page or click on one of the following suggestions for more information:

 

Check your pet's dimensions and not just his or her weight

You'll often see cat and dog strollers sold with information about the maximum weight they handle.  The weight limit indicates how much the frame supports and not whether a pet of that weight will be comfortable within the compartment, so be sure to verify the height, width, and length of the stroller compartment compared to your pet.  We see a very low return rate but when strollers are returned, it is usually due to animals who are not comfortable in a pet stroller that suits his or her weight but not dimensions.

Pet Stroller Tip:  If you have concerns about whether your pet will fit into a particular stroller, use masking tape or newspaper on the floor to create a rectangle equal to the length and width of the pet stroller.  In a pet stroller, your pet doesn't need so much room that he or she can run around, but your cat or dog must be able to sit, stand, turn around, and curl up comfortably within the given dimensions.  

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Consider the terrain

Do you only walk on well-maintained sidewalks?  If so, strollers with smaller wheels should suit you well; but if you wish to take your pet over cracked pavement, ice- or snow-covered sidewalks, sand, gravel trails, or grassy areas, then consider a pet stroller specifically made for rougher terrains.  Products with larger wheels, stronger frames, and shock absorbers will give your pet a safer and more comfortable ride.

Pet Stroller Tip:  For uneven terrains, consider pet strollers with larger wheels, sturdier frames, and shock absorbers.  Examples of pet strollers made for rougher terrains include the AT3 All Terrain Pet Stroller and the Petzip Luxury Monogram Jogging Stroller.

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Assess your storage and travel needs to decide if a collapsible stroller is necessary

Some pet strollers are specifically designed to be very easy to collapse--the entire stroller folds at the push of a button, making it perfect for travel and storage. 

Pet Stroller Tip:  If you want a product that can easily fold to just several inches in depth, then consider pet strollers from Pet Gear or the Walk 'n Roll Pet Stroller

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Would a stroller with a detachable carrier or car seat provide more value and function for you?

Some pet strollers are multi-functional, converting from a stroller to carrier and/or a car seat.  These pet strollers are usually smaller than other models, so they may not be right for larger dogs and other pets.  Some different examples and types of detachable carriers and car seats include:

  • The Kittywalk Pet Stroller line:  These pet strollers feature carriers that detach, but they are quite bulky and not generally functional for carrying pets over longer distances.  The detachable compartments are great for moving a pet into and out of a home or vehicle without having to remove your pet from the stroller's enclosed compartment. 
  • Pet Travel Strollers:  These pet strollers feature carriers that can easily be used to transport your pet around town or on trips.  Pet travel strollers have shoulder straps that attach to the compartment for easy carrying, and they include a car seat loop so that the carrier can be secured in a vehicle using the seat belt.  The size of these pet strollers make them appropriate only for smaller pets.  Check out the Pet Gear Travel System

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Consider your pet's preference for privacy

If your pet wants to get outdoors but still wishes to have some privacy, select a stroller with a privacy parlor.  Kittywalk strollers have two sections--one netted area so your pet can see out and enjoy the sights, and a second section that is surrounded by canvas so he or she can be alone.  

Pet Stroller Tip:  If your pet may desire some "me time" during a stroll, check out the Kittywalk pet strollers, which offer a privacy compartment for your cat or dog.

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If you wish to jog with your pet stroller, select the right pet product for your purposes

If you wish to go jogging with your pet stroller, select a stroller made for such a use.  Regular pet strollers will not provide the stability or mobility you need for jogging speed!  Pet strollers that are best for jogging have three wheels rather than four (for stability) and offer large wheels, shock absorbers. and other safety features.

Pet Stroller Tip:   One stroller made specifically for jogging is the AT3 All Terrain Pet Stroller with a front wheel that can be fixed in the forward position, or set to swivel. Includes a fender over the front wheel to keep your pet dry, a Wind/Rain cover, and sturdy shock absorbers.

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Consider if you'll stroll in inclement weather

If you only plan to use your pet stroller when the sun is shining, then any pet stroller will do for you and your pet.  But if you plan to use your pet stroller on days that are raining, windy, or cold, then consider a pet stroller that provides more protection for your loved one.

Pet Stroller Tip:  Examples of pet strollers that provide the greatest all-weather protection include the Happy Trails PLUS Pet Stroller and AT3 All Terrain pet strollers, which come with Wind & Rain covers. Other strollers have rain covers as an optional item available at additional expense.

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Be aware of how many items you may wish to take with you on a stroller

If you and your pet stroll with a lot of items such as toys, water bottles, and snacks, consider a pet stroller with a large basket for storage and transport of items.  In addition, if you wish to stroll with beverages or cell phones handy, select a pet stroller with a "parent tray" mounted to the stroller handle.

Pet Stroller Tip:  If you carry a lot with you, check out the Pet Gear strollers; all offer large mesh baskets for maximum carrying capacity, and all but one include a parent tray. 

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Beware of hidden costs

When comparing strollers and retailers, check the price but don't stop there:  

  • Watch for hidden shipping charges; 
  • Be sure you read the return policies to find a retailer who backs their products;  
  • Check to see if the retailer has product in stock and can ship quickly; and
  • Do not purchase from an online store that doesn't share ratings and comments from customers. 

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Be careful about look-alike pet strollers

As pet strollers have become more popular, cheap look-alike strollers have reached the market. They have similar designs as name brands, but the knock-offs are not made with the same quality construction and materials and have a much higher return rate.  Many wholesalers of these "knock offs" won't stand behind the product, so many retailers don't permit returns.   

Pet Stroller Tip:  Look for genuine, quality brands such as Pet Gear, Happy Trails, Jeep, Petzip, and Kittywalk!  And please be confident in purchasing from JustPetStrollers.com:  We only carry pet strollers in which we trust our own pets!   

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Be sure your pet gets the exercise he or she needs

Pet strollers have many great purposes, such as taking pets to outdoor events and parks, making trips to the vets, visiting dog shows, permitting cats to get fresh air, and providing a means to transport older or injured animals.  But, we want your pets to he healthy!  Please use your pet stroller wisely and keep your pet healthy with plenty of exercise!

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Tips for helping your pets adjust to a pet stroller

Finally, here are some tips to help you and your pet adjust to your new pet stroller.  Most people find their pets take to pet strollers immediately, but for those of you with change-resistant pets, here are some easy tips to help your pet with his or her new pet stroller:

  • Try leaving the pet stroller open and available to your pet with some treats inside the stroller. Let your cat or dog explore the pet stroller and get to the treats inside. Be sure to lock the wheels so the stroller doesn't move as your pet explores it.  Many pets will begin to treat the stationary stroller like a bed or perch.
  • Before going out of doors, try wheeling your pet to an open door or window. Let your pet associate the stroller with the great outdoors, but allow him or her to get acclimated from the safety of indoors.
  • Reward your pet with a treat the first couple of times you use the pet stroller.
  • Plan a few quiet trips first.  Pet strollers are great for taking pets to crowded or hectic environments, but plan your first couple of trips to nearby destinations that are quieter and at times that are less busy. Let your pet get used to the new stroller experience without too much hustle and bustle.
  • Place a favorite blanket inside a stationary pet stroller.  A familiar blanket will provide a sense of safety and will allow your pet to hide when they want some privacy. 
  • Once accustomed to the pet stroller, only put your pet in the stroller when headed outside. Your pet should associate the pet stroller with the enjoyment of being out of doors rather than with being confined indoors. 
  • Give your pet a little time to adjust.  As with any change to a pet's habits, be sure to give your cat or dog some time to get used to the change.  We have had many customers report their cats and dogs were unsure of the stroller at first, but virtually all pets eventually get comfortable and enjoy their stroller trips as a treat; some even come to view the pet strollers as theirs and not yours!

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We hope you find these tips helpful.  You will also find additional ideas, tips, and information on our Pet Stroller Blog and on our Help page.  You may also find helpful information by viewing our information about dog strollers and cat strollers.

Of course, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us! 

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