New product

THERE is a new type of dog-powered scooter available that sounds to be a lot of fun for dogs and smaller owners (the size of the dog will largely determine the size of the load that can be pulled along).

This new scooter is particularly approprite for urban use on bike paths and wide footpaths/sidewalks. The human is in more control of the speed and direction of the scooter because the dog is harnessed inside of the machine frame and is subject to its steering and braking force. This also simplifies the animal's choices and reduces the level of training required of the dog.

Simply harness the dog and clip it into the frame and off you go. With just a few outings pulling the scooter the dog quickly learns when to slow (by feeling the braking) and which direction to turn by noticing the wheel angle. Dogs love it because it takes little effort to pull the scooter and they get excercise next to their owner. The owners love it because they are excercising their pets with little effort on their part and getting a fun free ride! (They can participate if they like by kicking the scooter along in the usual way). The harness connection insures that no downward loads are applied to the dog. Of course, as in all dog powered sports, only reponsible/caring owners need apply.

Use of the scooter is recommended for younger and athletic dogs of medium to large size. The outrigger wheel and frame can attach to most scooters in a few minutes with simple tools and can detach just as easily. The harnesses come in several sizes. They are made of powder-coated chrome-molybdenum steel and are very light. The wheel is rugged and has sealed bearings.

The unit pictured is a prototype - the actual unit has been updated. The price of the outrigger is $US225, which includes shipping and harness.

Scooters must be purchased separately. The scooter pictured is the "WILLY" by Blauwerk of Japan and is available for $US280.

For more information contact Mark Schuette, phone: 541-383-3845, or e-mail: mschue5938@aol.com.

Editor's note: I was very glad to see the stipulation on purchase of these rigs that 'only responsible/caring owners need apply'. Without supervision a child could see it as a new toy and spend the greater part of the day riding the scooter or giving rides to friends and the overworked 'engine' may suffer damage. However, larger dogs do enjoy 'mushing' and such sports, and treated as a sport with controlled training and perhaps club days with fun competition runs, these could be an excellent way to share some fun and exercise with your dog.