Wed, Nov 14th 2007

Pet Human Designs EBD Carry-all

For all your dog’s travel possessions

EBD Carry-all: I have to suspect that the makers of the EBD -- short for Everything But the Dog—Carry -- all knew that I had a purse fetish when they sent me this product. It arrived in my favorite color combination of brown and pink, chock full of everything one might need for an outing with a dog.

I’ve long been a fan of collapsible pet dishes, and the EBD contains two of them, one for food, one for water. We immediately tried one out, and Bella drank readily from it. A freezable gel pack, which also comes with the bag, can be used to help keep food or water cool. Stash keys, poop pick-up bags, a clicker, a toy, treats, a bottle of water, a canister of dog wipes and whatever else you or your pooch might need in the 10 interior pockets (one zippered). I wouldn’t have placed the zippered pocket on the inside flap with the zipper at the bottom, but that’s a minor flaw.

One exterior pocket holds a cell phone or MP3 player, while the other is designed to dispense a roll of CwickUps—canine waste pickup bags in coordinating colors (sold separately). You can attach your keys or other items to the bone-shaped carabineer on the bottom of the bag.

The 14x12x5 tote bag also holds a 56-inch by 46-inch machine-washable travel blanket that’s water-resistant chocolate-brown on one side, soft fleecy pink on the other. Spread it on the floor of a hotel room or use it for a picnic in the park. When I unfolded it, Twyla immediately took possession of it. Maybe she realized the pink color set off her black-and-tan fur to perfection, or maybe it was just soft enough to meet her demands for comfort. It folds up into a compact bundle with carrying straps.

We tested the EBD on a walk to a nearby park. The adjustable strap allowed me to wear it comfortably across my body, and the CwickUps were easy to access. I wouldn’t carry it for the mostly short walks we take around our neighborhood, but for an excursion to Balboa Island, the monthly Cavalier play date at the park, or our next road trip, it’s a winner.

Retail price for the EBD Carry-all is $49.95 and it’s available at pet retail-supply outlets nationwide. The company’s website is www.pupcentric.com and the phone number is 678-810-1042.

-- Kim Campbell Thornton