Dog Bike Trailer Pre-Ride Checklist

1. Inspect the bicycle Brakes bite, tyres are inflated, nothing rattles. Towing adds weight the brakes must stop.
2. Inspect the trailer frame Look for cracks, bent tubing and loose bolts, especially around the hitch arm and axle mounts.
3. Check trailer wheels Quick-release wheels are pushed fully in and locked; spin each wheel to check for wobble.
4. Check tyre condition and pressure Inflate to the pressure printed on the sidewall. Replace cracked or worn tyres.
5. Check the hitch connection Hitch pin fully inserted and clipped; the coupler sits square on the axle with no play.
6. Check the hitch safety attachment Where provided, the safety strap or secondary loop is wrapped around the frame and clipped.
7. Check the trailer floor Floor is rigid, dry and clean; the non-slip mat lies flat.
8. Check doors and zippers Zips run freely and close fully; mesh has no tears a nose could push through.
9. Check the internal tether Tether is attached to the trailer anchor, short enough that the dog cannot reach the opening.
10. Confirm the dog is securely contained Tether clipped to a harness (never a collar), doors closed, dog settled before you move off.
11. Check visibility equipment Flag fitted, reflectors clean, rear light on the trailer charged and switched on in low light.
12. Check weather conditions Temperature, wind and rain are suitable for your dog. Hot pavement and strong crosswinds are reasons to postpone.
13. Check ventilation Mesh panels open; rain cover only where needed so air still moves through the cabin.
14. Choose a suitable route Surfaces your trailer handles, low traffic, with shade and water stops planned.
15. Confirm the dog is comfortable Relaxed body, no panting or whining before you start. If your dog seems distressed, stop and try another day.

A completed checklist does not guarantee safety. Always follow the trailer manufacturer's instructions, which take priority over this list, and stop the ride if your dog shows signs of distress.