The narrative states an "emergency release" feature, does that mean a strong pulling dog could quickly pull away?

I'm not sure what the emergency release feature is, but I had a 110 pound dog on it once who lunged after a squirrel and the Springer held the dog. If I recall correctly (it's been a while ago) I stopped the bike and put my feet on the ground so as to hold the bike. But I do remember that I was surprised at how well the Springer absorbed the pulling of the dog; in other words, when the dog lunged, it didn't pull the bike as much as I would have expected. I have noticed that the plastic eyelet that attaches to the harness LOOKS sort of incomplete -- it doesn't shut all the way. That has always worried me a bit, but I've never had a dog get off of the eyelet, and I've used this on 5 dogs by now of varying sizes. Still, I like to put another leash on the dog's collar as a backup. I wrap the other end of the backup leash loosely around my fingers of my left hand. I can feel from that leash if the dog pulls before I feel it from the Springer. It helps me assess what my dog is doing without having to eyeball him the entire time. Another little trick I like to do is to put 1 1/2 paper towel cardboard rolls on the string between the eyelet that attaches to the dog's harness and the eyelet that is part of the Spring. That keeps the dog from running in toward the bike; it keeps him in a pretty good heeled position.Don't forget to let your dog determine how fast to go and when to stop. Also, don't forget to keep the dog's pads in mind. If it's a hot day and you run him on hot pavement, it may be burning the pads of his feet if they haven't been hardened and calloused to the heat.

I need a new plastic hook and a safety release for the Springer - can you help me?

I can't help in terms of knowing where to get the plastic parts like the originals...BUT...I can tell you that I've had way better results using a metal carabiner(any hardware store will have them in numerous sizes and shapes). I use the Springer with 3 big dogs who want to chase everything. A metal carabiner, and if I(or they) see something they might want to chase, pedal FASTER. Seriously, the dog's priority will be to keep up with master, not chase the kitty.3 big dogs with minds of their own, and doing this for 5 years, never fallen off the bike or had any safety issues yet.

will this work on an adult tricycle?

It should, you'll need a 3.5" space to install the unit brace...it doesn't necessarily have to be under the seat post. Mine is installed toward the front so the dog runs right beside my leg/pedal, haven't had any trouble.

Do you use a collar or harness with the springer? The pictures show some of each. Any tips or pros/cons for either?

NEVER use anything other than a body harness when biking any dog on any bike or bike attachment. There is always a risk of having to stop abruptly and you do not want your dog to be on a neck collar in that moment. And even during regular biking without abrupt slow downs you do not want your dog to be controlled on the neck at running speed (would you like that?). You can go online and search "how to bike with dog" and a number of helpful sites will give you this and more tips. I am a dog trainer btw.

ASIN	B0017NM4OE
ASIN	B0017NM4OE
Best Sellers Rank	#88,421 in Pet Supplies ( See Top 100 in Pet Supplies ) #162 in Dog Hands Free Leashes
Brand Name	Springer
Breed Recommendation	Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds
Color	Black
Customer Reviews	4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars (649)
Date First Available	October 2, 2001
Date First Available	October 2, 2001
Directions	x
Included Components	Springer Hands Free Dog Leash Bike Attachment Kit -Pet Exerciser for Running, Walking Jogging - Universal Fit for Bicycles - Quick Release, 18-Inch Rope
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Item Dimensions LxWxH	18 x 8 x 2 inches
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H	18.5 x 8.27 x 2.01 inches
Item Weight	3.5 Pounds
Item model number	mc-sprnger-lead
Item model number	mc-sprnger-lead
Manufacturer	Springer AS
Manufacturer	Springer AS
Material	Alloy Steel
Model Name	Springer Dog Exerciser
Product Dimensions	18 x 8 x 2 inches; 3.5 Pounds
Size	Medium
Specific Uses for Product	Springer Hands Free Dog Leash Bike Attachment Kit -Pet Exerciser for Running, Walking Jogging - Universal Fit for Bicycles - Quick Release, 18-Inch Rope
Target Audience Keyword	dogs
Warranty Description	x

SpringerHands Free Dog Leash Bike Attachment Kit -Pet Exerciser for Running, Walking Jogging - Universal Fit for Bicycles - Quick Release, 18-Inch Rope

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