WHAT SIZE PORTABLE KENNEL DO YOU USE?  

Veterinarians, trainers, and responsible breeders alike agree that using a kennel in your vehicle is the best way for your pet to travel on trips or to the veterinarian office. Pets, like their owners, can possibly be injured while traveling as passengers in vehicles. Therefore, to make your pet’s traveling experience as pleasant and safe as possible - kennel up!  If you choose to allow your pet to sit in a seat instead of being put in a kennel, be sure to use a padded harness. People should never forget to buckle up and your pet is no exception!

You wouldn’t travel with your child unprotected in a car, so why would you travel like this with your best friend? Although your pet might be a bit steadier on his feet than a child, he can just as easily get injured if you’re forced to make a sudden stop. An unrestrained pet can crash through the windshield or out of a window, or get thrown from the vehicle or the back of a pickup. So take the initiative ‘kennel up’ and protect your pet with a portable kennel.

It is important to have your pet be as comfortable as possible. Be sure to include a familiar-smelling chew toy or Komfy Quilt Pet Bed to help him feel extra safe and secure, especially if he is not accustomed to long car trips. If he is not used to traveling, begin by taking short trips to “fun” places like a nearby park or pet store. Because dogs learn by association, connecting “fun” with the car will make for a much happier traveler.

Tips:
• Take your pet to his potty area before placing him in his kennel for travel.
• Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time. Especially on hot days.  Rolling down a window is not enough.  Remember they are wearing a non-removeable fur coat.   On a warm day, the temperature in a parked car can reach 120° in a matter of minutes—even with the car windows partially open. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation when trapped in high temperatures. 
• If your dog must ride in the back of a pickup, be sure to secure the kennel so it doesn’t slide around.
• Kennel your pet  for its safety and your own peace of mind!

REQUIREMENTS FOR DOMESTIC AIRLINE TRAVEL

If your trip requires that you travel by plane, be aware that airlines have certain requirements that must be met before you can actually board your pet. Call the airline well in advance and ask them about their requirements, which may differ slightly from other airlines. Doing so will eliminate a lot of unnecessary stress for both you and your pet! Know the following regulations BEFORE you arrive at the airport:

• All kennels must be equipped with food and water and container(s), proper ventilation, lockable door latch(s), and a sign that reads “LIVE ANIMAL - This Side Up” placed on top of the kennel.
• Airlines require a health certificate, no more than 7-10 days old, ensuring your pet’s good health and vaccination record (necessary for both cargo and cabin areas).
• Airlines have a one-pet-per-passenger policy.
• Airlines recommend pets wear an ID tag indicating a phone number in case of an emergency.
• The FAA requires that animals remain in their kennels at all times while on board the plane.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates how many animals the airlines can allow in the passenger cabin on a given flight (an advance reservation for your pet is therefore essential).

Tips:
• Restrict your pet’s food and water 4 hours before departure to minimize his urge to potty.
• Freeze the water so it will thaw by the time your pet is thirsty but won't splash out during loading or unloading.
• Take along a few of his favorite chew toys and something with your scent on it to help settle him.
• Line the kennel with shredded paper or towels in case of an accident.
• Consider a mid-week or late-night flight, it usually has fewer passengers.
• Check that the kennel you are using is airline approved!

GOIN' TO THE DOGS - PO BOX 302 - TOLEDO, OR  97391   USA 

gttd@teleport.com