Pet crate training is one of the most important things in preparing your pet for air travel, whether you’re looking to fly with a bird, ferret, dog, or even a cat. A well-trained pet, comfortable and safe in their crate, will make the experience far less stressful, not just your pet but for you as well. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, these tips will help you crate train your pet effectively in just a few weeks.
Starting Pet Crate Training Early
The earlier you start pet crate training, the better. Ideally you want to give your dog several weeks, or even months, to become comfortable. Rushing the process (especially with cats or dogs), can increase their anxiety, so starting early and slowly gives them plenty of time to adjust to the situation. As an owner, it gives you the flexibility to take things gradually, which is important if your animal has never used a crate before. Making the crate a positive space in your home with treats and toys also helps your pet adjust to the crate before flying outside of the UK. Avoid placing the crate near sharp, hot objects or in direct sunlight whilst your pet is inside.
Importance Of Choosing The Right Crate
It’s essential to select an IATA-approved, sturdy, and well-constructed pet carrier for air travel. The crate must provide a secure enclosure with appropriate ventilation, keeping your pet safe and comfortable throughout the journey. The primary difference between a travel crate and a carrier lies in their size and construction. Travel crates are generally more robust and larger, whereas carriers, on the other hand, are typically smaller and better designed for smaller animals.
If you’re choosing a crate for travel, look for a sturdy, rigid plastic or wood box that is leak-proof and well-ventilated, that meets the airline’s needs and travel standards (which it’s important to check before booking). Collapsible and soft-sided crates that a pet can easily chew or scratch are not recommended for international pet travel.
Additionally, the crate should include securely attached water bowls that can be filled from the outside of the carrier to meet your pet’s hydration needs during the flight. It’s crucial to have enough supplies, especially if the flight is long-haul. There are air travel specifics to take into consideration when preparing your pet, like absorbent pads to catch crate accidents, and some type of clothing or blanket that has a family scent on to help keep your pet calm and aware of their surroundings. “Live animal” stickers attached to the crate that hold the pet’s details are also important for a more secure journey with your animal.
Pet Crate Sizing
When traveling to any country, whether it’s inside the EU territory or outside of Europe, you must have your pet in a correctly sized crate at all times. Your pet spends a lot of time inside their crate while travelling, and a bad fit can have serious negative consequences. To measure your pet properly and choose the correct crate, follow these steps below to ensure it’s fit for travelling.
- Measure your pet’s height while they’re sitting, starting at the top of their head or the tips of their ears (If the ears stand above their head) to the floor.
- Measure your pet’s length while they’re standing, moving from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail.
- Add 3 to 4 inches to both dimensions to give you the most appropriate crate size for your pet.
If your pet is in between crate sizes or the crate you’ve selected doesn’t match up with your pet’s measurements exactly, make sure to go up a size, as this will help your pet stay comfortable during the duration of the flight.
One thing you should avoid doing is buying an oversized crate far bigger than your pet’s needs. While you may think more space is better, a carrier that is too large can make pets feel vulnerable and unprotected, not ideal for travel. Your pet should be able to stand fully (without hunching over) and be able to relax comfortably, or spread out inside the crate if they wish. Pet crates come in several different sizes, the most common being 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, and 48” length, but it depends on what breed of dog you have, as they can vary slightly.
IATA Compliant Travel Crates, And Where To Find One?
IATA travel kennels are often called airline-approved crates, and are specifically designed to meet the strict regulations set by the International Transport Association (IATA) for safe air transport. You can find an IATA-compliant travel kennel in many pet stores, or online. As mentioned above, you need to ensure you have the proper size and construction in order for it to be compliant and safe. There are many companies out there that offer reliable IATA-compliant carriers for various breeds and animals, but if you have an extremely large dog, then you may need a custom wooden kennel built for them. Regardless of the type of kennel your pet requires, it’s always a good idea to get it well in advance of their travels so they become familiar and used to the carrier.
Safety Hazards With Pet Crates
Airlines are very particular about what goes inside the crate when your pet is travelling. When your pet is in the air loose items may pose a choking risk or a safety hazard, especially for dogs and cats, which is why they are prohibited at all times in the crate. This includes unattached water and food bowls, which must be attached to the door of the crate. Pets can get bored inside crates during travel, and the owners sometimes feel the need to put pet toys inside, but really, they just create a security risk. In terms of comfort, inside high-sided beds and overly stuffed bedding are not acceptable to most airlines. Hay or straw lined crates are also a no-no due to hygiene reasons.
Useful Information To Know
Once your pet is comfortable going in and out of their crate unaided, gradually introduce them to being inside with the door closed. Start with very short periods and slowly increase the duration. Remain patient, and avoid forcing the door shut, especially if the pet is not ready. As they adjust, try taking them on short car journeys while in the crate to mimic the sensations of air travel. Over time, as they start to get used to the crate, try leaving them inside for longer periods of time. It’s also helpful to recreate the airport environment by playing recordings of aeroplane sounds or placing the crate in a busy area at home.
The more familiar these sensations become, the less anxiety your pet will feel on the actual day of travel. Pet crate training is a vital part of preparing them for air travel. With patience, consistency, and training tips, you can ensure they feel safe and comfortable in their travel crate, making the whole journey smoother for both of you. Planning a trip with your beloved pet can be both exciting and a challenge, but by understanding the travel regulations that ensure their safety, you’ll have a smooth journey with your pet.