Caring for your wagon and your dog

General care

Maintaining your InnoPet dog buggy is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some important steps to follow:

  1. Clean and Lubricate Wheels and Axle: After each use, it's crucial to inspect the wheels and axle for any accumulation of dirt, sand, or mud. If you find any, clean the axle and wheels thoroughly. Ensure they are completely dry before applying a thin layer of vaseline as lubricant. Avoid using WD-40 or similar products, as they can exacerbate the issue.

  2. Store in a Dry Place: To prevent rust formation and extend the life of your buggy, store it in a dry and sheltered area. This will help protect the metal components from moisture and the elements.

  3. Long Periods of Non-Use: If you plan to not use the buggy for an extended period, consider disassembling the wheels. This prevents unnecessary stress on the tires and axles.

  4. Avoid Prolonged Folding: Leaving the buggy folded for extended periods is not recommended as it can cause creases in the fabric. Periodically unfold it to prevent fabric folds and potential discoloration due to light exposure.

  5. Zipper Care: Ensure there is no tension on the zippers when storing the buggy. Keep the zippers open to prevent any strain on them.

  6. Cleaning the Fabric Cover: If the fabric cover becomes dirty, clean it with lukewarm water using a gentle handwashing method. Avoid using aggressive soap. After cleaning, avoid drying it in direct sunlight or near heating sources.

  7. Rain Cover Maintenance: After using the rain cover, make sure to dry it before storing it. Store it in a frost-free area to prevent damage.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can keep your InnoPet dog buggy in top condition, ensuring that it continues to provide a comfortable and safe experience for you and your furry companion.

Storage

Depending on the size of your dog stroller, storage can be quite a hassle. Make sure your dog stroller is stored in a dry place. Moisture can cause rust on metal parts and mould on the cover.

Garage or shed

You can store the dog stroller or bike trailer in the garage. In that case, make sure it is kept free of moisture. For example, putting the stroller in a (dry) garden furniture cover.

Indoors

Store your dog stroller indoors by folding it and putting it in a storage room or hallway closet, for example. Remove the wheels from the dog stroller to make it just a little more compact.

Long-term storage

If you are not going to use the stroller for a long period of time, consider disassembling the wheels. This will avoid unnecessary stress on the tyres and axles.

Avoid Prolonged Folding. Leaving the stroller folded for long periods of time is not recommended as it may cause creases in the fabric. Unfold the stroller occasionally to avoid fabric folds and reduce possible discolouration due to light exposure.

Rust prevention

A stroller for your pet is quite an investment, so it is in your best interest to prevent rust. Here are some tips to prevent rust:

✔ Regular cleaning: Clean your stroller regularly with a mild soap to remove dust and dirt.

✔ Thoroughly dry: Make sure the stroller is completely dry after cleaning or after exposure to rain and pay attention to joints and cracks.

✔ Protective coating: Apply a rust-preventing spray or wax to metal parts to form a barrier against moisture.

✔ Avoid exposure to salt: If you are in coastal areas or places with salty roads, rinse off salt residue immediately to prevent rust.

✔ Store indoors: Store the stroller indoors, away from humidity and direct sunlight. If the pram must be stored outdoors, use a weatherproof rain cover.

✔ Regular inspections: Check for signs of rust or wear, especially on wheels and hinges, to address problems at an early stage.

✔ Use lubricants: Apply silicone-based lubricants (Vaseline) to moving parts for smooth operation and to prevent rust.

If you follow these tips, you can keep your stroller in optimal condition, keeping it functional and looking good for years to come. Remember: a little maintenance will go a long way!

Getting your dog used to the wagon

Some dogs will jump in their wagon and not look back, others are slightly more reluctant and need more time. We’ve complied some hints and tips to try and help, however, all dogs are different and you know your dog best!

Here are some tips that you may find useful:

  • Take off wheels and allow them to get used to it in the house before going anywhere

  • Use own bed/blanket inside so it smells of them (make sure it’s non-slip)

  • Give lots of treats/positive reinforcement when they go in the wagon

  • Once comfortable with it with wheels off, introduce it in the house with wheels on (really important to have brakes on and/or against a wall) to stop it moving when they get into it)

  • Take care with releasing the brake. When the wagons are very new they do “ping” if you release them quickly. This may scare your dog.

  • Once they will go in the wagon, get them used to it moving with them in it. Lots of positive reinforcement with treats.

  • Start with short distances on smooth surfaces and progress to different surfaces as able.

  • If your dog gets very excited in certain places, it may be better to trial the wagon in less exciting locations.

  • Consider attaching the leashes to a harness rather than a collar

  • Give them time. Some dogs settle in them immediately, others take longer. If your dog is nervous and you rush it, it will take longer or they might not accept it at all.

Please don’t struggle - we are here to help the best we can - please contact us if you need support.