Dog Crates
Crates are great for transporting dogs to the vet, on a plane, or just about anywhere. A dog crate is an absolute must for anyone who plans to transport their dog. Crates keep a dog safe and secure while being transported.
Types
There are several types of suitable crates. With the many choices out there, everyone can find the perfect crate for their pet. A few of the types of crates are wire, fabric, and plastic. All of these styles are fairly lightweight and economical. Some models even collapse down for easy storage. A crate is also a great place for your pet to rest and relax while at home. If you plan on flying with your dog, it is important to find out which crates are approved by the airline.
Why use dog crates?
Using crates will keep your pet safe while he travels. Allowing a dog to roam a car is very dangerous. Not only is it a distraction for the driver, but if there happens to be an accident, the dog could be seriously injured or even killed. It is always a good idea to use crates whenever transporting dogs.
Choosing a crate
Choosing the right size of crate is important for the comfort and safety of the dog. The dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in his/her crate. The crate should be about 1 ½ times larger than the length of the dog.
Traveling
Traveling can be very stressful for any animal. It is a good idea to familiarize your dog with the crate before traveling. Leave the crate in your home where they can get inside and check things out. This will help your pet feel more at ease and be familiar with the crate before it's time to travel.
It is never a good idea to feed an animal before traveling. Some dogs may get sick due to nerves or bumpy roads. A dog should eat no more that four hours before they will be traveling. It is also important to try to keep the crate out of direct sunlight so that the dog will not get too warm. Dogs also need to be able to stop every few hours to allow for stretching and going to the bathroom.
A dog crate is the safest way to transport a dog. Anyone who owns a dog and plans to transport it, needs a dog crate. |
