When it Feels Like Spring is
Just Around the Corner
Granted, I have experienced enough early Spring weather to know that when Winter loosens its grip in the first couple of months of the new year, it most always tightens it back up again refusing to let loose entirely until April. 
I have witnessed many brave and joyously welcomed crocuses and daffodils come up out of Winter’s barren land and spread the elation of the celebration of their colors and promise of Spring only to be frozen a few days later with the icy return of Winter (or so it seems). So, I have decided to make the most out of these precious, Spring-like days we get after Christmas, by getting outside and doing something enjoyable while it lasts!
Last weekend was such a weekend. I felt restless, like a bear beginning to awaken, still in her den, from her long winter hibernation. The sun was shining, it was 60 degrees outside, most of the snow and ice had melted and I thought to myself, “I bet if I’m feeling this way, my cats are, too. I should take them each for a walk!”
I exuberantly retrieved the pet stroller and prepared it for the first rider, Comet. He was, as usual, filled with excitement and anticipation! My cats love to go for walks in the pet stroller! They love to experience all the new smells; crisp, fresh air, children playing, and passer-bys. I always say the walk will be a short one; but, it always ends up being anywhere from a half- mile to a mile. It’s fun when people realize it’s a cat in the stroller and not a human baby. 
That usually sparks a bit of dialogue!
A mile is just about the right length of time for a cat stroll. By then, it’s time for another one to take it’s turn. If you’re not used to a lot of exercise, you can rest in-between rides. [My stroller has 2 drink holders on the handle and a storage area underneath. When the weather is warmer, I take a drink along with me.] Tinkerbell went next. We, too, walked for about a mile before returning home. They’re so funny to watch as you’re pushing them in the stroller. They sit straight up, taking in everything! It’s such an enjoyable time, it doesn’t feel like exercise; it just feels like fun!
So, if you catch yourself in the doldrums of Winter and you notice a bored Bengal in your house, try taking a walk with your pet in a pet stroller. If you’re a spontaneous sort of person, PetsMart usually has them in stock. If you would rather plan things, they are easily found on the Internet. Just be careful to make sure you’re buying a safe one, as they’re not all the same. Below is a list of things to consider when shopping for a pet stroller.
- Check your pet’s dimensions and not just his or her weight.
- Consider the terrain.
- Assess your storage and travel needs to decide if a collapsible stroller is necessary.
- Would a stroller with a detachable carrier or car seat provide more value and function for you?
- Consider your pet’s preference for privacy.
- If you wish to jog with your pet stroller, select the right pet product for your purposes.
- Consider if you’ll stroll in inclement weather.
- Be aware of how many items you may wish to take with you on a stroller.
