The Basics of Travel Crates
By HollywoodPet.net |
Sun, 17 Dec 2006
Pets traveling by air usually travel safely, but every year dogs and cats get injured escaping from their travel crate or trying to escape. Keeping your pet safe while keeping your mind at ease means taking a few steps to be safe. A quick review of qualities of good travel crates will make your trip that much easier.
Make sure your crate meets standards.
The U.S. Department of Transportation has standards for crates that are airline approved. Make sure your travel crate meets these standards by checking the labeling.
Function.
Make sure your crate has all the necessary hardware to function. Missing items should not be temporarily fixed. Get genuine replacement parts.
Construction.
Your travel crate should be of heavy duty plastic. All hardware should be of metal. A metal door is a must too. Be wary of plastic fittings or hardware. Metal bolts are usually the strongest.
Security.
Extra tie downs on the crate door will insure your pet won't get the door open on the crate. Plastic ties are common but require a knife to remove, and most airlines do not allow any cutting items on flights. This is a common way in which pets get hurt when the door is opened by the dog or cat during flight. Put something extra on the door like a plastic tie or lock. Avoid cording of any kind because of the swallowing or strangulation issues.
Labeling.
Before departing, label the crate with a "This Side Up" and a "Live Animal" sticker. Also attach copies of shots records and your contact information. Carry a photo of your pet on your person when traveling for identification purposes.
A good secure crate will become your pets home on the go. Familiar bedding will keep your dog or cat at ease too. The most important thing is that the crate is held together with metal fittings, and that the door is doubly secured. Keep your mind at ease by making sure to get an airline approved crate for some great trips with your pet.
