Your pet is truly a member of your family and you want all the best for their comfort and care. Whether you are moving, traveling, or bringing your pet home for the first time, making sure your pet is comfortable and well cared for is a top priority.
Traveling with your pet is not always possible. In the times you need to arrange to have your pet travel without you, knowing they will be well cared for will give you peace of mind. Here are a few things you can do to make sure the pet transport journey is comfortable and relaxing.
Types of Crates
The first thing you’ll need to make sure your pet has the maximum amount of comfort during transport is a crate. The one you choose will need to be large enough so that your pet will be able to lie down. Here are the different types of crates you can purchase for your pet.
Wire Crates
Wire crates are made entirely of wire without any enclosure or plastic covering. These crates are excellent to use when training your pet. Many come with a divider that can grow as your pet grows.
While these aren’t the best choice for traveling, it’s important to use something that your pet is most familiar with so that the trip will be as comfortable as possible.
Plastic Crates
Plastic crates have a hard shell exterior with a wire door. The plastic typically has ventilation holes on the sides for optimal airflow. Since these tend to be more durable, they are generally better suited for travel than wire crates.
If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, this type of crate might work best for you. The enclosure gives privacy and added quiet to help keep your pet calm on the journey.
Soft Crates
Soft crates are lightweight and made with breathable mesh material for ventilation. They can also come with convenient features like zippered pockets and removable beds. Most of these crates are foldable for easy storage after you and your pet have been reunited.
While these crates are durable, they are not designed for dogs over 25 pounds. If you have a larger dog, a plastic or wire crate will work better.
Play Time
Along with keeping them comfortable while they travel, you’ll want to make sure your pet is entertained as well. Having a variety of toys within reach will help your pet pass the time while traveling. You can find all of these toys anywhere they sell pet supplies.
Chew Toys
If you are transporting a puppy or even a big dog who still loves to chew, have toys available that can withstand some serious gnawing. Even if your pet isn’t known to chew, the anxiety of travel might give them some renewed chewing urges.
There are plenty of toys designed specifically to satisfy your pup’s need to chew and they come in all shapes and sizes. Many come flavored with beef or bacon to entice them to chew on the toys instead of other things you’ve packed in their crate with them.
Puzzles
Just because your pet is in a crate doesn’t mean they can’t have a little fun. Puzzle toys exercise your pet’s brain and improve problem-solving skills. With these toys, you can provide some mental stimulation and prevent boredom.
Some toys have slots where you can hide small treats for the discerning pet to find. Others hide squeaky toys for your pet to dig out of a plush base. Whatever you choose, these toys can help your pet can find entertainment and fun along the journey.
Comforting Toys
If your pet has a special toy or blanket at home that they love to snuggle with while sleeping or relaxing, be sure to include that in the crate with your pet. If your pet doesn’t already have a lovey, soft blankets or plush animals are an excellent thing to include so that they can snuggle as they rest.
Some toys are designed specifically to give comfort to pets that suffer from anxiety. Many of these come with a built-in “heartbeat” so it feels like they are snuggling with their favorite human.
Bedding
For the maximum comfort of your pet, you’ll want to include bedding in the crate. Sleeping on hard, unforgiving surfaces can be uncomfortable not to mention tough on your pet’s joints.
It’s best to include bedding that your pet is familiar with when using pet transport services. Traveling with items that feel and smell like home will add to your pet’s comfort.
If it’s not possible to include your pet’s bed or large pillow due to size, you can include a smaller pillow or bed along with a blanket that smells like home. Having a warm and comfortable place to nap and play will make your pet’s journey the most pleasant it can be.
Health Considerations
When using pet relocations services, you will need to secure a pet health certification. This is a form for your veterinarian to fill out certifying that your pet is in perfect health and able to travel. Pets can carry harmful bacteria and other illnesses that can be harmful to other animals, so it’s important to make sure they are completely healthy before travel.
Planning for Your Pet Transport Journey
Giving your pet a comfortable and entertaining environment will ensure a relaxing pet transport journey. If you are planning a move or vacation and need transportation for your pet, the pet transport industry can help you out.
Blue Collar Pet Transport understands that your pet is your family and will give your pet optimal attention and care. Contact us for a free quote!