Things You must know about transporting your dog.
Dog Carriers
Dog carriers can be used for fun safety and convenience. There are a few things to consider before selecting a dog carrier.
∑ The size of your dog.
∑ What you will be using it for.
∑ Your budget, and personal preference.
This will determine which style is best suited for you and your dog. They come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, so you have numerous options.
TYPES OF CARRIERS
Luxury And Designer Carriers
The doggie fashion world does cater to small teacup size dogs. If you have a dog that is 2 - 8 lbs you will have a vast array of choices for pampering your pet. Luxury Dog carrier bags, doggie purses, and dog tote carriers can be taken any where in your daily travels. Their appearance in some cases is more elaborate than your own handbag.
They come in leather, faux fur, and fabric, personalized in a variety of styles. These popular designer carriers are not only chic, trendy, fun and look great but are safe and functional.
Soft Carriers
If your pooch is less than 25 lbs there is a good assortment of very nice soft carriers in many fashionable styles, colors and materials. You will find a good combination of functionality and safety. Some of the soft carriers are easily collapsible for your convenience. This is a nice feature if you are constantly transporting from car to house.
Wearable Carriers
Dog backpacks, front packs and all types of wearable carriers are dog backpack great for hiking, biking, walking and just running errands around town. They come with safety features, pockets and in a variety of styles and fabrics.
Hard Carriers
Hard carriers are available for both small and large dog breeds. These are sturdy, durable, and should give you years of use.
Hard Plastic Dog Carrier Travel Carriers
If you are traveling with your dog, you will definitely need a carrier. Check with the airline if you plan to travel by air. Your pet carrier must be airline approved. Look Below for info regarding dogs on airlines.
For other modes of travel, for example, by bicycle or motorcycle, many options are available.
When Choosing A Carrier Look For
* Ability to clean easily
* Reasonable guarantee
* Good ventilation
* Comfort
* Good visibility
No matter what type of dog carrier you choose the first consideration is safety, not style or fashion. You will want to keep your precious pet from harm and injury.
Dogs on Airlines
There are certain legal guidelines and restrictions for dog air travel.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) govern air travel for dogs. The airlines themselves have different regulations.
Always contact your airline well in advance to review the particular procedures and requirements.
Two events have forced many U.S.-based airlines to severely modify, curtail or in some cases abandon the transport of live animals: The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2000 and the signing of the Safe Air Travel for Animals Act in April of the same year.
In April of 2000, the federal government enacted the Federal Aviation Administration re-authorization bill that includes portions of the "Safe Air Travel for Animals Act," legislation designed to make air travel safer for pets and other animals. In preparation of the new Act, Congress found that, with respect to animals:
∑ Animals are live, sentient creatures, with the ability to feel pain and suffer.
∑ It is inappropriate for animals transported by air to be treated as baggage.
∑ According to the Air Transport Association, over 500,000 animals are transported by air each year and as many as 5,000 of those animals are lost, injured, or killed.
∑ Most injuries to animals traveling by airplane are due to mishandling by baggage personnel, severe temperature fluctuations, insufficient oxygen in cargo holds, or damage to kennels.
∑ There are no Federal requirements that airlines report incidents of animal loss, injury, or death.
∑ Members of the public have no information to use in choosing an airline based on its record of safety with regard to transporting animals.
∑ The last congressional action on animals transported by air was conducted over 22 years ago.
∑ Conditions of cargo holds of airplanes must be improved to protect the health, and ensure the safety, of transported animals.
The best airlines generally have written rules for dog travel. These guidelines are evidence that the airline has given a good deal of thought to the safe transport of dogs specifically and animals in general.
Small dogs can sometimes be crated and taken on board the plane with you. Larger animals must stay in the cargo area. If you must fly your dog, no matter what airline carrier you use, there are important guidelines to consider.
∑ The dog should be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned.
∑ The dog cannot be ill, violent, or in physical distress.
∑ According to the ASPCA and many veterinarians, as well as most airlines, pets should not be sedated for air travel. If you are concerned about your pet being over anxious during travel, then please discuss this with your veterinarian. Make sure that your pet’s nails are trimmed to avoid snagging on the travel crate’s door or some other object.
∑ The travel crate must meet the airline’s standards and be large enough for the pet to lie down comfortably, turn around, and stand freely.
∑ Mark the crate with "Live Animal — This Side Up" and include your name, address, and telephone number in case she gets lost or misplaced in transit.
∑ Try to book a non-stop flight and take temperatures into consideration. During the summer, book to fly at night when it’s often cooler. Some airlines now refuse to transport at all in hot or humid conditions.
If your origin and destination are inside the U.S., consider the alternative method of moving your dog using professional ground transporters like Pro-Pet-Transports.
Dog Relocation
Whether you are moving across town or across the nation, relocating your dog successfully can be awkward without adequate preparation and investigation. Neighborhoods, local regulations, laws and covenants vary widely. We recommend that you perform a "reconnaissance" for your dog that includes the following:
∑ Prior to your dog's arrival, estimate the area in which your dog will be spending the most time. Indoors or out, it should be large enough to provide your dog with adequate entertainment and exercise during your absence.
∑ Prepare your dog's living area with familiar articles.
∑ Walk your new neighborhood yourself. Note the location of other animals in the area and the proximity of schools, parks, open land.
∑ Upon arrival, supervise your dog closely until he/she becomes acclimated to the new surroundings.
∑ Keep the dog's schedule as regular and uniform as possible during the transistion.
∑ Contact local authorities or citizens regarding any special regulations that may apply to your dog.
