A pet carrier is a prerequisite for the responsible pet owner. Wherever you go and however you travel it is of the utmost importance to keep your pet safe, secure and comfortable. A pet carrier will do this. There are a variety of them on the market today and they come in a huge range of colours and sizes and in a variety of materials wood, plastic, metal, fabric and traditional wickerwork to suit all tastes, pockets and animals.

Buying your Pet carrier

It is very important when you are buying your carrier that you get one of the correct size for your pet and to do that you will have to measure him. Firstly measure your dog, cat, rabbit, hamster, turtle or horse etc from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail add 4” or 10cm to this measurement, then from the top of his head to the floor and add 2“ to this measurement. This is the smallest acceptable size for your pet and of course it will add to his comfort if you can go slightly bigger. If bedding is added to the carrier then of course you will have to take account of this when you are measuring. All travel boxes should have adequate ventilation and owners should check when buying that your pet will be carried in comfort.

Materials

An insulated aluminium travel carrier is an excellent choice for your pet the insulation will keep the animal cool in the warmest weather and warm in cool weather. They are light to carry, easy to clean, cheap to maintain and can be repaired by any handyman. They are also much more durable than the plastic carriers especially for larger animals.

A plastic carrier is entirely suitable for the smaller animal and for short journeys. They are bright and colourful cheap to buy and easy to replace if necessary. They are also easy to clean and light to carry.

Wooden travel boxes or crates will usually be required when sending your pet by plane the airline company may have very specific regulations on the dimensions of box for your animal. (buying your pet carrier) Some planes also use plastic carriers Many travel boxes are made-to-measure but be sure that you go to a well known supplier who knows what is required.

Recently introduced to the market are fabric boxes for animals, they are similar to a tent and provide protection from the sun, privacy and comfort for the animal. They are flexible to transport, light to carry and the waterproof lining can be easily cleaned.

Wickerwork woven pet carriers are the most traditional and usually have a handle like a basket and a flap that covers the top when the animal is inside. They are well ventilated through the wicker weaving and are useful for short journeys by train, bus or car.

Lastly, there are the disposable carriers which are similar to a large cardboard box with ventilation holes all around the edge these are extremely useful for one-off journeys but not as a long term solution to carrying your pet.

Acclimatisation

Acclimatise your animal to his pet carrier before you have to travel, put in his favourite toy or his blanket and perhaps let him sleep in it a couple of times.  Do not put your pet in his carrier too early, pets can get cramp in the confined space, so let him run around until just before you are ready to go.  Do not give your pet too much food prior to travelling and make sure that if they require travel sickness tablets they are given at least an hour before the journey.

Travel ethics

Never forget to restrain your pet in your moving vehicle, whether he is in a carrier or not you do not want him to end up as a missile should an accident occur. If you are travelling for longer than one hour it is important to take a good supply of clean water and his favourite food.  Make provision for your animal to have regular rest breaks, (at least every two hours) give him a chance to stretch his legs and do his business.  If it is not possible for your pet to go to the toilet outside, make sure you have a litter tray or large sheet of plastic and that he knows what it is for and how to use it.  Try never to leave your pet unattended in the car, animals dehydrate very quickly and can suffer from heat stroke if there is not enough air circulating.  Leave the windows open as much as possible without danger to your pet.

Your pet carrier is an important part of your pet’s life.  It will add to his and your enjoyment of your trip if your pet is comfortable, happy and content.