Distance travel can be stressful for anyone, but for your furry friend, it can be incredibly nerve-racking. Although we do everything that we can to ensure that your pet is both comfortable and safe during their journey, your pet’s carrier will be a huge factor in their overall wellbeing.
It’s essential to ensure that your pet’s carrier meets the proper guidelines for air travel, while providing the utmost comfort during their journey. Here are some essential guidelines to use when determining the best possible travel carrier for your four-legged companion:
Make sure that the carrier is the correct size
The sizing of the carrier will have a big impact on your pet’s comfort. If the carrier isn’t large enough, you will run the risk of reducing airflow to your pet, which can cause breathing issues. In addition to this, a too-small space will make your pet feel closed-in, which can cause them additional stress and anxiety. Coupled with reduced airflow, this is a recipe for panic.
Remember, enclosed spaces reduce your pet’s likelihood of feeling safe, so make sure that they have a decent-sized carrier (i.e. something they can stand, sit, and move around in) to create a better experience for them. Having a good travel experience will help ensure that you encounter less resistance from your pet in the event of future travel plans.
Insulate the floor of the carrier with newsprint
Aircraft floors can be extremely cold once the plane is in the air. Several layers of newsprint underneath your pet’s bedding will keep the surface of the carrier comfortable while they travel. This will not only help your pet regulate their temperature during the flight, it will also serve as an absorbent material, should your pet have an accident.
As an added bonus, the little extra cushioning can create a little room for “burrowing” or digging, a habit that some dogs or cats may use in order to feel more secure during stressful situations.
Avoid using carriers with ventilation holes at the bottom of the carrier
Many airlines will reject the usage of animal carriers with ventilation holes at the bottom. This is because urine, aside from the smell, is a corrosive substance that can cause damage to the aircraft.
Make sure that you purchase a carrier that has ventilation holes in the sides and top of the carrier, not at the bottom. If you already have a carrier with ventilation holes on the bottom, cover them over with duct tape in order to adhere to aircraft standards.
By choosing a carrier that will make your fur-child feel sheltered and cozy, you will ensure a positive travel experience for them, opening the door for any future travel plans together. Contact us today to learn more about how Worldwide Animal Travel can help you, and your pet, have a smooth and enjoyable ride to your destination.
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