Choose The Suitable Carrier For Traveling
Most countries prohibit animals from traveling by car without being tied up. Therefore, the pet carrier has now become an indispensable accessory to be able to transport dogs, cats and other pets in a legal and, above all, safe way. If you have to go on vacation and you do not know how to choose the suitable carrier for traveling with your dog or cat, do not miss our guide.
Tips for choosing the pet carrier
1. It must be safe
The best pet carrier you can buy is undoubtedly the one that will guarantee maximum safety and comfort for your pet. In the event of an accident (we do the due diligence), it will be essential to save his life. There are some models that are more rigid or with greater padding that can offer more protection to your four-legged friend.
Buying such an object is not just to avoid serious injury in the event of a possible rear-end collision. It is also a way to prevent the animal from moving inside the vehicle and from disturbing or distracting the person who is driving.
2. A pet carrier suitable for the size of the animal
Generally speaking, dogs don’t like to travel by car. It is possible that your dog or cat is one of those who are hiding as soon as they hear the engine start. Therefore, it is important that the size of the carrier is proportionate to the size of the animal.
Keep in mind that, in order to choose the most suitable accessory, the new carrier must allow the dog or cat to turn around without problems, even with the door closed. This way, if the animal cannot stand and urinate inside the portable cage, it can stand to one side, without feeling uncomfortable. The more comfortable the pet is, the better it will cope with the stress of travel.
3. It must be comfortable
Not only the dimensions will make the carrier comfortable for the pet, but also the material and the interior design. There are many types in pet stores. Try not to push too much on the price: it is always better to prefer a more refined model, since it will guarantee greater comfort to your best friend.
For example, a crate made entirely of hard plastic or with a metal base could be cold and very uncomfortable for the pet. Choose one that is finished and possibly padded inside. Or, even better, that it is large enough to allow you to add a blanket or pillow.
For small dogs, for example, it is better to choose bags (as you can see in the photo above). Since they are soft and very padded, they adapt perfectly to the pet’s body and their flexibility allows them to move. Choose the one that best suits your pet.
Tips for traveling an animal in the carrier
If you are about to start a journey with your dog or cat, don’t forget to follow these simple but effective tips:
- Don’t feed him. It is always best to start a journey with your fasting pet. Otherwise there is a risk that he may feel sick and throw up. Allow a few hours to pass between the last meal and departure.
- Bring enough water. Hydration is essential to ensure maximum well-being during the journey, especially if you travel during the warm months. Make him drink a lot and, from time to time, take a break to make him stretch his legs and allow him to free his bladder.
- Never put it in the trunk. It is never a good idea to lock your pet in the trunk. Only if your dog is medium to large in size, it is possible to place the kennel in the rear area of the vehicle. Remember to remove the floor, so that the animal can always see you and hear your voice.
Alternatively, you could give up the pet carrier and have the dog sit in the rear seats, but installing a dividing net so that the animal does not create problems for the handler.
