Sunday 6 April 2014

Pet Carriers for Air Travel

Pet Carriers for Air Travel


Airline approved pet carriers are a must for getting precious cargo from one place to another in safety. There are many different choices to consider in pet transportation systems. It is important to make sure that the unit you choose meets the standards of air travel regulations for animals.

Different airlines may have individual requirements that vary from one air travel organization to another. Make some considerations when investing in a pet carrier approved for airline flight. It is wise to adopt a unit that is standard for a number of different travel companies.

Size is a crucial factor in choosing pet carriers that are airline approved. You definitely want your pet to travel in comfort. The ideal animal transporter should be nice and cozy while providing adequate space for your pet to travel comfortably.

Some airline approved pet carriers can be checked in as carry-on items. This is the ideal situation for most animal lovers who don’t like the idea of having to be separated from their travel companions.

These pet transporters are typically designed for the smaller dogs and cats. The standard pet shipper that can be used as a carry on item will be able to fit comfortably under the seat right in front of you. Of course, sizes will vary according to the size of the dog and the size of airline approved pet carriers for carry on travel.

Check out the details before packing. Style and design is another factor to consider in portable carriers for pets. There are a number of different looks that you may want to consider for your furry travel companion.

The ideal unit is designed to keep the animal comfortable and safe while on the move. It should suit the airline requirements for carry on pet transporters. It should suit the size of the animal and it should suit your taste.

The types of airlines approved pet carriers include everything from totes to kennel-style designs. Personal preference is the deciding factor with many of these items. If they are approved for flight travel then they are probably safe and well-tested. The freedom to choose from different varieties of pet transportation devices is very appealing.

One design that stands out offers a softer alternative to the plastic-and-metal versions. These airline approved pet carriers are soft and have a lot of movement. They resemble duffle bags and they are made of mesh material that allows the pet to see well. Travel with a furry companion doesn’t have to be a burden. If you have the right airline approved pet carriers at your disposal you will have a great experience.

Shipping your dog or cat
You will find here information to assist you in making transportation arrangements for dogs and cats with the airlines. 
 

First questions before booking 

When do you want your pet to travel?

If you ship yourpet as air freight, check with the airline to ensure the air freight facility is open so your pet may be claimed by the consignee.
Transport of snub nose dogs, such as boxers, pugs, bulldogs and Pekinese, in hot season isnot recommended. These animals have difficulty in maintaining a normal body temperature in hot weather.
Note that it is preferable to ship your pet on week days as all staff are working and liaison is easier all along the route.
Contact the airline you have selected to confirm that they accept your pet on the day and flight that you prefer. Some airlines restrict the number of animals on a flight so the more advance notice you give them the better it is.
 

Where is your pet traveling to?

Is your pet going to travel within your own country, or will it be traveling internationally? Do you intend to break the journey, or stopover at an intermediate station? What is the pet's final destination?

What is your pet's size and weight?

Only small dogs and cats can go in the cabin. Some airlines may not even allow them in, and will transport them as special baggage in a heated and ventilated hold. Do not worry, cats and dogs actually travel better this way because it is quieter and they will rest in a darkened environment.
 

Do you have a suitable container for your pet?

It is important you purchase the right sized container for your animal. Airlines use the following indications to ensure the animal has enough space to turn about normally while standing, to stand and sit erect, and to lie in a natural position.
 


Note: IATA does not certify, approve, endorse, or sell any particular pet container manufacturer, brand , make, or model. Equally so, IATA does not offer, solicit, endorse, or approve any particular pet or puppy transport or relocation services, regardless of whether these be offered via email or the internet. Readers should pay attention to fraudulent offerings that claim the opposite.
Should you decide to build your own wooden crate, verify with the airline if they accept custom build containers. For certain dogs, airlines may mandate the use of containers of a different more sturdy design than those of Container Requirement 1 (CR1). It is equally important to ensure that all locking mechanisms function properly and that the animal can not distort, gnaw at or push in/out the wire mesh or the pieces holding the mesh of the door. So, the mesh must be firmly attached to the door, not stapled.   
Food and water containers (troughs) accessible from outside the container are required. The carrier, or government agency, may require that additional food be provided in a pouch attached to the container with feeding instructions.
 

How many animals will be traveling?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Welfare Act (AWA) states that "no
more than two live puppies or kittens, 8 weeks to 6 months of age, that are of comparable size and weighing 20 lb. (9 kg) or less each, may be transported in the same primary enclosure via air carrier." This is a good practice to follow for all animal shipments, no matter what country they are traveling in.
Remember, animals may become stressed and aggressive when traveling by air and should not be placed in the same container unless they are young puppies or kittens. Animals which share the same household may become stressed and aggressive towards each other when traveling by air.
 

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