1. Wheels, rims and spokes
Pet strollers with wheels of 6 inches and smaller are not very suitable for beach walks. These small, narrow wheels easily burry themselves in the sand, making it difficult to push or pull the dog pram over the beach.
Dog strollers with metal rims and spokes are also not advisable. Prolonged contact with water will cause rust. Salt water will even speed the rust process. If you do decide to use dog stroller with metal rims on the beach. Be sure to clean them with fresh water afterwards and dry the wheels thoroughly.
Your best bet are wheels with plastic rims and spokes. Pet strollers with wheels over 8 inches are easier to take over the sand. These wheels, too will need some cleaning after use on the beach, but mostly to remove the sand and salt. When dirt gets stuck in ball bearings or connections to the axle, this may cause a creaking noise when pushing the stroller.
2. Dry and loose sand
Ever tried to ride anything with wheels on loose, dry sand? You will have noticed it is almost impossible, you would need incredibly thick tyres to do so. When pushing a dog stroller over this sand, you may damage the front wheel(s). If the front wheel turns sideways, and you keep on pushing the stroller, the front fork or stroller frame can be damaged.
If you really have to take the dog stroller through loose sand, slightly tilt the stroller to lift the front wheel off the sand, and pull it backwards across the sand.
3. Moist and firm sand
The sand close to the shore line is much more suitable for pushing a pet stroller. If you step on this sand with your foot, you will hardly leave an imprint. Over this sand, you can easily push the stroller.
Front wheel in loose sand. Continuing to push while the front wheel locks can deform the front wheel. |
Front wheel on firm, moist sand. On this firm sand, wheels can roll with ease. |
Innopet pet strollers for the beach
These pet strollers have wheels with rims that do not rust, which make them more suitable for wet surfaces. Do take care to rinse the wheels with fresh water and dry them completely after use on the beach. Proper maintenance will prolong the life of your dog stroller.