When it comes to flying with a pet, everyone dreads having to leave their beloved friend in the cold cargo hold. I’m sure if it was up to you your pet would be sitting in your lap, but airline policy is ruthless and cold, and obviously wants to separate you two. Well, at least until you have safely landed.
Since your pet cannot escape the cargo hold, the least you can do to contribute to its comfort and safety is to pick a well built pet airline carrier. This will be your friend’s home for the duration of the flight, its safe place. As such, you should make sure that the carrier is the right size and is constructed according to safety recommendations. And don’t think about cutting corners. Price should not be a concern when it comes to your best friend’s safety.
It’s important that the carrier is also compliment with airline laws. This means that you should skip past the crates with plastic doors or side clips that can easily open during turbulence. And wheels are not a good decision either, since the carrier can start to slide across the cargo room, which can make your pet nauseous. If your carrier does have wheels, the airline personnel will ask you to remove or disable them. In any case, before you go purchasing a carrier, make sure to ask your airline about their regulations regarding airline approved carriers and pet travel.
A pet airline carrier can come in all kinds of shapes and sizes in order to cater for the different needs of different animals. Normally, you’d want your pet to have enough room within the carrier to be able to turn around, stand or sit, and lie down. Therefore, its important that your measure your pet correctly prior to purchasing a carrier. If you’re not sure how to do it, here’s a detailed instructional video to guide you through the whole process.
Other important considerations regarding pet airline carriers are the following:
- Good ventilation – At least two sides of the crate should have mesh walls to allow enough air to get in.
- Waterproof bottom – Be sure to get pet pads which will prevent moisture from leaking through the carrier or pooling inside of it.
- Properly enclosed – The animal’s head or limbs should not stick out the carrier. The door should be tightly shut to prevent the animal from pushing it open.
Follow these guidelines and equip the kennel with a good bed and enough food and water to last your pet for the whole trip. Not only will the kennel be compliant with airline recommendations but it will also make your animal friend feel comfortable and at ease.