How I turned a pandemic dog adoption into a cargo bike adventure — and everything I learned about riding with dogs along the way

Marley Blonsky and her dogs.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when silence and loneliness settled into my apartment, I did what so many others did: I adopted a dog. Well, two dogs actually. Living by myself, I hoped that a four-legged companion would add some much-needed joy and companionship to my life. So I adopted Daisy Mae and Lacey, a bonded pair of senior dogs, in October 2020.

As an avid cyclist who uses her bike for transportation, recreation and a source of community, I hoped my new companions could liven up my home and become part of my cycling life as well.

Here’s how I’ve managed to bring Daisy Mae and Lacey into my two-wheeled world, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way