Transport Crates – How to Travel with Your Dog

Sometimes it may become necessary for us to travel with our dog. Whether it is by airplane or automobile you will need a transport crate to secure them in.

If you are traveling by airplane then this will undoubtedly cause you stress. No dog owner likes to think of their dog locked in a cage who knows where on a plane. Are they safe, scared, cold, hot, thirsty or hungry? But the fact is most dogs must be put in the cargo department. To ensure the easiest time for your dog you should make sure that the crate that they are traveling in is suited to their needs and size.

If you plan to travel with your dog make sure that you buy a USDA approved carrier or crate. Airlines have very strict guidelines which you must follow or you may be leaving your dog on the runway. The carrier or crate should be the appropriate size so that your dog can comfortably stand up and turn around in.

If your dog has been crate trained at home then you may not have a problem. On the other hand if your dog has never been exposed to a crate you must prepare them in advance. This could take weeks of acclimating him to going in and out of the crate and being left alone in it. Take this slow if your dog is fearful.

Transport crates can be made from durable reinforced plastic or wire mesh. With either make sure that it is approved for your airline. Both have their good points depending on your dog. With the plastic ones your dog may feel more secure since it tends to be more enclosed or den-like. Or they may prefer to feel more open in the wire crate. You know your dog best so pick what will make him feel the most comfortable.

If you will be transporting your dog internationally then you may want to contact a company that deals with the international regulations on transport crates. These may differ from interstate regulations and you need to make sure they meet the standards of The International Air Transport Association.

If you are on a one way trip, perhaps to a new home, then you may choose to rent a transport crate if your dog will have no further use for it. There are companies that will provide you with the appropriate crate and all you have to do is pick up your dog at your destination and leave the crate behind.

If you have a small dog such as a Yorkie or Maltese you may be able to take the dog with you on the plane. Check with your airlines well in advance to make sure of their rules and regulations. You will still have to have an approved transport crate but the benefits of your dog being with you can be invaluable to both you and your dog. These transport crates may not have to fit the regulations assigned to the ones for cargo.

There are some very stylish carriers that are airline approved for small dogs. They come in such styles as over the shoulder carriers to roll on carriers. If your small dog must fly why not have them fly in style and comfort. Dog transport crates of all varieties come in all price ranges.

We all will worry about our dogs having an accident during the flight. Some dogs no matter how well-trained can get scared or nervous and have an accident. They could get sick at their stomachs and vomit as well. There are precautions you can take to help your dog while confined in the transport crate. If you take some old towels or bedding and place it in the crate it can act to absorb any urine or vomit. Or if you prefer there are special pads (pooch pads) you can buy that will act as both a mattress and will absorb any moisture. These pads are designed to absorb four times their weight in moisture and are specially treated to stop offending odors. They are varied in cost depending on size. But any dog owner should invest in this for their dogs comfort. It’s a small price to pay.

Just make sure that no matter what type of transport crate or carrier you choose that is approved for your airlines. And make any special arrangements with the airlines well in advance. You want your dog to have the easiest flight he can.

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