Everything You Need to Know About Animal Transport Crates
If you own a pet and travel with them regularly, an animal transport crate is an essential piece of equipment. Whether you’re moving houses, going on vacation, or taking your furry friend to the vet, a crate provides a safe, secure space for animals during transport. However, with so many crate options on the market, making a selection can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to choose the best crate for your pet’s needs.
Why Use an Animal Transport Crate?
There are several important reasons why crating your pet is recommended for travel:
- Safety – A crate prevents pets from roaming freely in a vehicle where they could be injured during turns or stops. It also keeps them contained in the event of an accident.
- Comfort – When secured in a crate, pets feel less stressed than moving around openly in an unfamiliar environment like a car. The crate resembles their safe den space.
- Protection – Crates shield pets from dangerous objects they may ingest like food wrappers or loose change on the floor. It also prevents fights if transporting multiple animals.
- Convenience – Crates provide a designated space to keep pets corralled and prevent messes in the vehicle. You can easily transport the entire crate wherever you’re going.
From my experience volunteering at an animal shelter, I’ve seen how important crates are for keeping pets calm and cars clean during outings. A secure crate goes a long way in ensuring safe, hassle-free transport for both pets and their owners.
Choosing the Right Crate Size
Getting a crate that’s too big or small can compromise safety and comfort. Here are the guidelines for proper sizing:
- The crate should be large enough for the pet to stand up and turn around in comfortably but not overly roomy.
- Measure your pet from nose to tail while standing. The crate length should be 1.5 times this measurement.
- Measure from floor to shoulder while standing. The crate height should be just above this measurement.
- Width is less crucial but allow a few extra inches so the pet isn’t squeezed.
It’s better to err on the small side when in doubt. An overly roomy crate can allow pets to pace and feel anxious rather than curl up. You can also use partitions or beds to block off extra space if needed.
Crate Materials to Consider
The three main materials used for pet crates are plastic, wire, and soft-sided. Each has pros and cons to weigh:
Plastic crates
+ Durable and long-lasting
+ Lightweight for travel
+ Easy to clean
– Can trap heat making pets hot
– Noise amplification
Wire crates
+ Excellent ventilation to prevent overheating
+ Clear visibility in and out
+ Lightweight for travel
– Can be noisy
– Small openings harder for larger dogs
Soft-sided crates
+ Portable bag style easy for air travel
+ Noise dampening and cozy feel
+ Easy cleaning
– Less durable long-term
– Flimsy materials for anxious chewers
I’d recommend plastic for cars, wire for home use, and soft-sided for planes depending on your pet’s needs. Test different styles to see what they feel most comfortable in.
Additional Features to Consider
Beyond material, think about these extra crate amenities:
- Dividers – Adjustable plastic inserts transform crate sizes as pets grow.
- Wheels – For rolling heavy crates easily on various surfaces.
- Handles – Built-in or add-on handles make lifting crates a breeze.
- Comfort pad – Crate pads, beds, and blankets make the space cozy.
- Roof – Helps anxious pets feel more enclosed and secure.
- Gate attachment – Allows gating crates in homes without permanent doors.
I went with a plastic crate that has wheels, a divider, and a comfy pad for my labrador. The wheels save my back when transporting and he loves having a snug den feel to relax in.
Other Tips for Safe, Stress-Free Transport
Once you’ve picked the perfect crate, follow these additional tips I’ve learned to keep trips as low-stress as possible:
- Desensitize pets to their crate beforehand with treats, toys and positive associations.
- Provide water but avoid food for a few hours before travel to prevent car sickness.
- Use blankets with familiar scents to make the crate feel more like home.
- Anchor crates securely to prevent tipping during travel.
- Provide chew toys/bones for anxious animals to stay occupied.
- Bring dirty towels/shirts from home to smell if pets seem upset.
- Stop frequently for potty breaks and exercise when taking long trips.
With the right prep work using a crate is a kinder alternative than leaving pets loose in a vehicle. They feel protected and you have one less thing to stress over while on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common queries folks have when shopping for pet transport crates:
Q: Can different animals share the same crate?
In general, it’s not recommended to put unfamiliar animals in the same crate unless you know they get along extremely well and are both calm travelers. It’s best to crate animals separately to avoid stress or fights breaking out in unfamiliar situations.
Q: How do I travel with a crate by plane?
Soft-sided crates are perfect for plane travel as carry-on luggage. Most major airlines allow small crates under the seat in front of you. Always check baggage size limits and requirements. Leave adequate ventilation and water for longer flights.
Q: Will my crate fit in my vehicle?
Measure your vehicle cargo space dimensions and only purchase a crate you know will comfortably fit laying on its back or side. Collapsible crates are handy to reduce size as needed.
Q: What if my pet is scared of the crate?
Introduce crates slowly at home and always associate them with positive things like treats and toys. Cover the crate when not in use so it’s not a visual stressor. Desensitization training can help pets feel more secure over time.
Q: How do I transport very small pets?
Hamsters, guinea pigs, etc. require secure carriers with good ventilation. Look for compact plastic or wire crates safe for smaller animals that won’t allow escapes. Soft carriers also work well with adequate padding and coverage.
I hope these tips and guidelines help you choose the perfect travel crate to keep your furry friend safe and stress-free on all journeys. Let me know if any other questions come up!
Important Considerations When Choosing an Animal Transport Crate
| Crate Size | Recommended for Animal Size |
|---|---|
| Small | Small dogs and cats under 10 lbs |
| Medium | Dogs 10-30 lbs and medium cats |
| Large | Dogs 30-50 lbs |
| Extra Large | Dogs 50-70 lbs |
| XXL | Dogs over 70 lbs |
| Material | Plastic is lightweight but canvas more durable; noise level varies |
| Ventilation | Adequate ventilation reduces stress; wire doors better than solid |
| Handles | Handles for ease of carrying; collapsible for storage |
FAQ
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What size animal transport crate should I get?
The size of the crate depends basically on the size of your pet. Get a crate that’s large enough for your animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably but not too large so they don’t feel uneasy. The crate shouldn’t be so small that it strains them.
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How do I pick the right type of crate?
There are basically two main types – soft-sided or hard plastic crates. Soft crates are kinder on your pet but plastic crates are more secure during travel. It depends on your animal – dogs may chew out of soft crates if anxious. Look into escape-proof zippers or pads to make soft crates safe.
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What should I include in the crate?
Make sure to include their favorite blanket or toy to comfort them. Also add water in case of delays. But is it wise to give food so close to traveling? Maybe include a few reassuring treats to be used only if they seem distressed. Strong aromas like chamomile are suggested to calm them.
- Could I transport more than one pet together? Perhaps, but it kind of depends on your animals. If they get along well it may help to comfort each other. But some vets suggest separating them so one doesn’t make the other more anxious through their sounds. It’s best to discuss with your vet.
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How do I prepare my pet for crate training?
Start early so they associate the crate with positive things like treats. Feed them in there and praise when they enter. Leave the crate door open and let them enter freely to get used to it before closing the door for longer periods. Gradually build up time spent inside it. Is that enough to avoid stressed behaviors later?
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What if my pet won’t go near the crate?
If they seem fearful, try coaxing them in with toys or food, then praise enthusiastically. But do not force them or they’ll associate it with bad things. Go slow and be patient – maybe your pet just needs time to adjust. Consult your vet if problems persist, as desensitization techniques may help.