Who can help me tackle my slightly off the wall DIY project?

Question

I am a high school teacher who likes to get part time jobs over the summer. This summer, one of my jobs will be working as kennel help in my county's humane society. It's located in the next town over and I plan on riding my road bike. I want to take my dog Bernie to work with me. The distance is much too far (about 5-7 miles) to consider a simple bike basket--it just wouldn't be safe for him. What I would like to do is mount a rear attaching rack that attaches to both the seat and the back wheel and then attach a small dog carrier (my pup is only about 14 pounds) securely to the rack. Here are my questions:

What would be a good rack to purchase for this purpose?

What is the most secure way to attach the rack?

What is the best method for attaching the carrier? (All I can think to do is drill holes in the bottom of the carrier, zip tie it to the rack, and then cover the bottom of the carrier with a carpet remnant).

Is this project worth attempting?

Constructive help only, please

Answer 1

This is quite an easy project to tackle and well worth while. Go to a good bicycle shop and they will have an assortment of racks to attach to your bicycle, just pick the best and it will have all the fittings you need to attach it to your bicycle. They may even be able to help you with a carrier for your dog, if not  it won't be difficult to improvise one. Visit a good DIY store and see what bits are available. You might also consider a trailer that attaches to the rear of your bicycle; these are purpose built and come with all the parts necessary for fitting to your bike. The trailers are made specifically for carrying very young children, but I have seen many people using them to carry dogs, particularly if the dog is too big to be carried on the bike.

Answer 2

I would first make sure that the rack you purchase is manufactured to hold the weight.  Granted your pooch is about 14 pounds, but you'll wand to include the extra pound or so for his carrier.  Also, if you purchase the rack new it will come with instructions for instalation.  If you have a bycyle shop in your town they may even install the rack for a small fee.  As for attatching the carrier to the rack, som racks come with bungee straps or cargo net bungees that would be one good option for securing your pup.  I would also suggest to speak with your vet as they may information on racks specifically meant for your pet.  I'm including some links of various racks I found on the web.

Answer 3

That sounds fun.  It's stronger if u can secure it with metal bolt and screws.  That eliminates any small movement in the basket.  The zip tie is faster but not as secure to me.  They have small brackets to brace the basket in the hardware store.  Good luck...U can do it.