How To Choose a Dog Show Trolley
There are several features you need to think carefully about when buying a dog trolley, as although all appearing the same, it can be easy to purchase a product which isn’t right for you!
Aims
Do you want a trolley which can carry your dog and their crate, or one which can also act as a grooming table and can transport your equipment? Think about the venue, your needs and your dog’s needs
Size
The whole reason for you purchasing a dog trolley is so it’s easier to shuttle your dog crate or accessories around at shows. If it is a crate, it’s therefore crucial that your dolly’s base is wide enough to contain the dog crate! This might only be an issue if your cage is particularly large, but it’s always best to check!
Weight
Although pushing a dog and their crate around is a lot easier on the arm than carrying them, it’s still going to be hard work! You need to ensure that whatever trolley you pick is lightweight enough for you to be able to personally handle. And remember to consider the added weight of your dog and their crate!
Loading Weight Limit
If your pup and their crate weigh several tons, a dog trolley is probably not going to be able to sustain their weight. Make sure that you purchase a crate that can hold the weight of your dog, their crate and a few kgs extra to account for other equipment!
Foldaway/Dismantling Features
Dismantling and setting up a dog trolley between shows is not the most fun you’re ever going to have, but it’s still vital your trolley has some kind of portability feature. Without one, you’ll just be trying to find room in your car boot for a behemoth structure with added wheels!
Wheel Quality/ Removability
Although it might not seem important how strong or durable the wheels of a trolley are, it often makes sense to go for a product which boasts pneumatic tyres that can withstand any terrain. This is because many dog shows take place in rural areas, where a standard trolley wheel would likely struggle to function on uneven ground. Wheels that are removable also make storing away and transferring the trolley a much less stressful experience!
Handle Height
Perhaps something you wouldn’t consider, the height of a trolley’s steering handle can cause you serious discomfort and mobility issues should it be too small. The whole point of a trolley is to make getting around the show easier, not harder!
Table Hybrid
If you’ll be using a grooming table at the show, purchasing a table/trolley hybrid can mean you have one less thing to pack and makes setting up and transferring your equipment one quick and simple process.