Traveling with your dog is fun, but there are some responsibilities. Did you know there are guidelines for carriers when traveling on an airline? There are different carriers for your dog, but the proper sized carrier is what you need. Apart from meeting guidelines provisions, you don’t want just anything for your doggie baby, do you?
Getting the right sized dog carrier shouldn’t make you sweat; just read the tips below and you’ll know what you need to hit the road with your dog on your next trip:
1. Know your dog’s size
The size of your dog matters. So, to get the right sized dog carrier, you need to take a measurement of your dog to find a carrier that’s the perfect fit.
• measure your dog's backbone
Start measuring your dog's backbone from the collar point to the tail and add an extra 3 inches.
• measure the shoulder’s height
To get the right height, take your dog's height measuring from the ground to the shoulders, add an inch or two for the perfect carrier height.
You will need to choose a carrier that gives your dog a comfortable stay and it should not be too free for your dogs to climb out and definitely not too tight to restrict movement. Either way, your dog won't stay in it, and you don't want to argue with your dog on a journey that’s meant for fun.
2. Flexing Carrier
Most classic Sherpa bags come in Medium sizes measuring 10.5 inches tall. Most of these bags will fit only small sized dogs, but you need to consider how your dog will fit in and how you will be able to get it under the seat in an airplane. When choosing this type of bag, consider your dog first and next is how it will fit into the narrow seat space. The plane's under-seat space is shallow; you need a carrier of 18 to 19 inches max; also consider a breathable carrier for your dog.
3. Get a good quality carrier
If you travel a lot and love to be on the journey with your dog, you not only need just a dog carrier; you need something that is safe, good quality, exotic and durable. However, if you are an occasional traveler in the company of your dog, this may not be for you.
Airlines requirement for a dog carrier includes a bag with mesh ventilation panels on each side (minimum), padding, and a water-repellant fabric, to accommodate your dog fully, with enough space to turn around.
4. Get a carrier with wheels
You don't have the luxury of time when you are on a journey and should your doggie baby need to go; you’ll need a dog carrier with wheels to fast track your movement, especially in places where pet’s relief points are remote and you need to hurry up. Go for a carrier with wheels and don’t forget to consider the weight of your dog.