A springer success story....

[finn's mom]

Nope, usually I can just keep peddling and get the dog by whatever is distracting them. The springer absorbs most of their energy, especially if they try to go sideways, so you can usually just keep riding normally. I've gotten Kayleigh past squirrels, other dogs, grouse, ect without incident. If we'd been on a flat section this time, I probably could have done the same thing. Since we were going downhill and gaining speed, I just stopped and waited until Deuce could focus again. I woudn't have been able to stop safely if he'd been on a regular leash. He'd have made us crash for sure at the very least and I'd have probably lost him in the process!

I bypass the safety release that comes with the springer. I use a cable neckline instead, same one that hooks my leaders together on the sled team. With the dogs I take on it, I'd rather take a fall than loose them cuz the release broke. I've fallen once with it and it was fairly minor, no injury or scar inducing crashes since the springer. I also threw out the harness that came with. I use a tracking harness instead. Much easier to put on. I'd highly recommend one.

Thanks! I wonder if I'll be able to bypass the safety release...I'll figure something out, or I'll call on you for your advice when the time comes. I will for sure be buying one of these for Finn. Yay!

[shihtzulover850]

It's an attachment for bikes. Allows you to ride safely with a dog attached. www.springerusa.com

I should get one then!!

[lv4dogs]

What a scare, I am glad yous were not injured.

I've been wanting to get one of those for years now. I haven't though because first of all I haven't had a dog (until now, Kaige) who would be able to keep up with me, but more so because I was afraid they'd be able to tip me over. If you had that experience & ended up safe & sound I think it's safe to say I could do it too!
Now I just have to wait till Kaige is a little older so his body can fully handle it, which is good cause I have to save up some money.