The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Pet Carrier for Your Alaska Trip
Planning a vacation to Alaska with your furry friend? Figuring out the right pet carrier can seem daunting with all the options available. In this article, I’ll cover all the important factors to consider when selecting a carrier and provide recommendations from my own experiences traveling with pets. By the end, you’ll know exactly what size and style carrier is best suited to your pet and travel plans.
Consider Your Pet’s Size and Breed
The size and breed of your pet is the most important consideration when choosing a carrier. As the old saying goes – if it doesn’t fit, they won’t sit! Here are some general size guidelines:
- Small dogs and cats under 10 lbs: Look for carriers 8-12 inches wide by 10-15 inches long.
- Medium dogs 10-30 lbs: Carriers 12-18 inches wide by 18-22 inches long work well.
- Large dogs 30-70 lbs: Opt for carriers 18-24 inches wide by 24-30 inches long.
- Extra large dogs over 70 lbs: Consider carriers 2 feet wide by 3 feet long or larger kennels.
You’ll also want to account for your pet’s breed traits. Wriggly hounds may need more headroom than stoic bulldogs. Longhaired pets like schnauzers benefit from easily cleanable carriers.
Go Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided?
Most carriers come in soft-sided fabric or hard-plastic styles. Here’s the lowdown on each:
Soft-sided carriers
- Lighter and more compact for airplane travel
- Easier for pets to see out of
- More breathable fabric keeps them comfy
- Usually cheaper than hard-sided options
- Less durable and can tear with scratchy nails
Hard-Sided carriers
- More durable and escape-proof for anxious pets
- Sturdier for airline cargo holds
- Less breathable plastic can get hot
- Heavier and bulkier to transport
- More expensive than fabric carriers
I’d go soft for gentle pets and planes, hard if your furry friend is Houdini. Kennel train them with either beforehand!
Consider Airline Regulations
If flying to Alaska, make sure your carrier meets airline size limits which are usually around 20 inches long by 10 inches wide by 10 inches tall. Most will accept soft-sided carriers but hard plastic is preferred for safety in cargo holds. Check baggage fees too since pets rarely fly free. From my experience, booking early saves funds and reduces stress when flying with pets.
Will You Be Using it Other Places?
Think beyond the trip itself. Do you want a portable carrier that’s car-safe, fits under restaurant tables, or can double as a travel bag? My brother had a blast taking his Golden doodle on coastal hikes in a rugged backpack-style carrier. Just be sure to try it out first to avoid struggles en route!
Extra Features to Consider
Some handy add-ons to think about include removable padding or blankets (for easy cleaning), shoulder straps or handles, leash attachment points, exterior pockets, and airline approval labeling. Make sure any clips or buckles are escape-proof too. From mistakes I’ve made, extras like portable water and food bowls are clutch for long away days. And I’ll never fly sans pee pads again!
My Top Alaska Pet Carrier Picks
Now that the factors are clear, here are some proven favorites to consider from my own travels and customer reviews:
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier
As a soft-sided option, this cheerful carrier is roomy, lightweight and airline-approved. Love the double zippers, extra padding and pockets. Pups seem pretty chill cruising in the comfy denim-esque material. At $50, it’s basically a steal.
Pet Gear IGO2 Travel Dog Carrier
My go-to for medium pooches, this expandable airline carrier has reinforced sides to stand up to rambunctious retriever types. Removable leash/harness strap is clutch. At $80 it’s reasonable for the rugged style and lifetime warranty. Heaps of colors too!
Snoozer Lookout Pet Carrier
Small dog owners adore this plush blackhole. Ultra portable at 5 pounds, it’s perfect for city exploring and plane rides. Mesh sides offer stellar views without ever setting paws on the ground. A little spendy at $90 but worth every penny for the luxury ride.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier Bag
As a backpack option, this allows handsfree wildlife watching. Generously sized fits up to large Labradors. Durable nylon withstands tail wags and outdoor jaunts. Straps are well-padded. At $75, it’s a steal for the versatile two-in-one design.
Petfusion Outdoor Portable Kennel
For extra large pups, nothing beats this metal gate kennel. Sets up anywhere in seconds. Sturdy construction survived sandy shoreline campsites and curious critters. Best of all, it folds down small as my carry-on for $130. Perhaps not airplane endorsed, but ideal for car/ferry rides up to The Last Frontier.
Hope this in-depth pet carrier guide helps you choose the perfect companion for your Alaska adventures! Don’t hesitate to try different styles to see what suits Fido best. And most important – have fun exploring our amazing northern landscapes together. The memories will last a lifetime, if not the chewing souvenirs…
Choosing the Right Size Pet Carrier for Alaska Travel
| Pet Size | Recommended Carrier Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Small dogs/cats (up to 10 lbs) | Medium (15x10x10 inches) | Portable, lightweight, comfortable for pets |
| Medium dogs (10-25 lbs) | Large (18x13x11 inches) | Extra room for pets to stand and turn around, durable for airports |
| Large dogs (25-50 lbs) | Extra Large (21x16x13 inches) | Space for pets to lie down fully, strong handles, ventilated |
| Multiple pets | Double Decker | Compartments for 2 pets, mesh windows, collapsible |
FAQ
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How big should an alaska pet carrier be?
An alaska pet carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. It’s best if they have enough space to stretch out a little bit. The carrier shouldn’t be too big though, or else your pet may feel nervous in all that extra space. As a basic guideline, look for something at least 1.5 times the size of your pet.
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What size carrier do airlines require?
Most airlines have size limits for pet carriers that can be brought onboard planes. Usually they must fit under the seat in front of you. The limit is typically around 18x14x8 inches or smaller. Always check the specific rules for your airline just to be safe though, as they can differ slightly. It’s no fun getting to the airport and finding out your carrier is too big!
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Will my large dog fit in a carrier?
If you have a big ole’ pooch, getting them to fit comfortably in an alaska pet carrier can be a challenge. However, many folks are able to make it work. Look for an extra large or gigantor size carrier. You might need to measure your pup to double check clearance. There are also airline approved “hardshell” carriers that provide more space at the cost of being heavier. With some experimenting, most dogs can basically squeeze on in, even if it’s kind of a tight squeeze!
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What features should I look for?
When picking an alaska pet carrier, check that it has sturdy sides, a secure door, good airflow vents, comfortable padding or blankets inside, and a handle for lifting. Perhaps a collapsable design for easy storage too. Other neat features include water bowls, poop collection bags, or extra pockets… if you’re willing to splurge, that is! Above all, ensure the lil bugger is safe and cozy inside.
On the other hand, many pet owners find soft-sided carriers work well too. Despite lacking tough shells, the fabric material is usually lightweight and easy to tote around. As long as it has secure buckles or zippers, your pet will be safe and secure inside. Numerous pockets allow you to bring along extra toys or treats too. You just have to be more careful handling it so Fido doesn’t somehow wiggle out an open flap! Either way, most furry friends seem to tolerate carriers as long as they know a walk or treat awaits on the other side.
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Will my cat freak out?
It’s certainly possible for even the most chilled out cat to experience some stress in an unfamiliar alaska pet carrier. Their natural instinct is to feel vulnerable trapped inside. Some cats take to it better than others. With positive conditioning from a young age and making it a positive experience, most will adjust. Go slow, use treats and petting to build confidence. And maybe consider calming aids like pheromones or calming treats before traveling if really worried!
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How do I transport birds?
When transporting feathered friends, look for small carriers specifically designed for birds. They often come with soft perches and ventilation slots. Cork pop holes let fresh air circulate without drafts. Always provide water in case of long trips. Perhaps throw in a favorite toy like a mirror or millet spray to reduce stress. Carry separately from other pets if possible too. With care and planning, even nervous nellies can make the journey okay.
In conclusion, finding the perfect alaska pet carrier takes some experimenting. But with the right size, features, and conditioning methods, most pets can handle traveling comfortably inside one. Just be mindful of their limits while ensuring safety too. And it goes without saying, but don’t forget ample love and treats to reassure them along the way! With some trial and error, you’ll get it dialed in for stress-free transport. Let me know if any other questions come up as you search for the ideal option.