The Best Ways to Transport Dogs

The best way to transport your dog will depend on where you are sending or taking the dog, whether you are going with your pet, the distance and other factors. Just as it is important to restrain human passengers during travel, it is also important to provide safe travel for your dog, no matter how you transport it.

  1. Air Travel

    • There are several options in air travel. According to Airlines.com, if your dog is small, many airlines will allow it to fly in an approved carrier that fits under your seat. Dogs can also travel in cargo in pressurized holding areas whether you are also flying or just shipping your dog. In all cases, the dog must be confined in an airline-approved crate. Since airline regulations vary, you will need to contact the airline for their crate specifications. All crates must have water and food holders, be labeled ̶0;LIVE ANIMAL̶1; and securely shut, with additional special straps being preferred. Have absorbent materials for bedding, and consider booking nonstop flights when possible. Consider the times of day you'll be flying and take into account the temperatures if your dog is in cargo. Some airlines will not fly a dog if the weather is too hot or cold. Make sure your dog is used to being in a crate before you transport it.

    Professional Transporters

    • Petsonthego.com says professional pet transporters can help ship your dog. A professional service could be useful in situations such as when you are not traveling with your pet, are moving or if you are placing the dog in a new home.

    Vehicle

    • The only safe place for a dog in a truck is in the cab. No crate restraints or harnesses can protect your dog in case of an accident in the bed of a truck. In a car or truck cab, Purina.com says the safest location is in a sturdy crate. There are straps that connect to car seats to help secure the kennel in the seat. If you cannot use a crate, purchase a harness that is made to fit to car seat belts to secure your dog. Practice traveling short distances to get your dog used to the harness. Dogs are often killed in car wrecks due to not being restrained, so the use of crates or harnesses is advisable whether you are transporting your dog to the veterinarian or across the country. Purina recommends that your dog not be fed at least three hours prior to transport.

    Tips

    • Always transport your dog with a collar and identification in case of an accident. If traveling by air or across state lines, you may need a health certification from your veterinarian and rabies vaccination records.