Whenever you need to transport your pet, it is imperative to think of the safest and most comfortable way to do it, and when it comes to international transport, these aspects take on much greater importance, and the choice of transport box is vital.
Therefore, in this article we will clarify some doubts about how to choose the ideal transport box for your pet.
HOW TO GET HIM USED TO IT?
Just as we must be careful when creating new habits for children, for domestic animals, it is very similar.
When in contact with the transport box for the first time, most animals, due to their natural curiosity, will come and go frequently, but if they don’t get used to it without the owner’s stimuli, we have some tips:
Positive experiences: Don’t just put it inside the box and close it as this can feel like punishment. The ideal is to encourage the pet to enter the box and reward him every time this happens. Initially, let the animal enter and exit freely, without closing the crate.
Ambiance: Animals are used to smells and objects that give them security. It is helpful to put the pet’s rags and blankets inside the box, as well as some of your favorite toys.
Meals: Some meals can be made inside the box by placing the food bowl inside and, in this way, the animal will quickly feel that this is its space.
Once your four-legged friend is more comfortable inside the transport box, you can then close the crate. Initially close it for short periods and add time with distractions such as toys as your pet gets used to it.
BENEFITS
An important point is that transport crates are not made for the animal to stay in them all day. Domestic animals need to socialize to stay healthy. The shipping box should only be used for certain periods and when needed.
When there is a need to use a transport box, it is important for the animal to be used to it, so that it will feel safe, comfortable and at home.
In these cases, there are benefits for using the box:
Transport: To take your pet to a place farther away from your home, for a visit to friends, outings or other matters, the transport box will ensure, during the journey by car, the safety that this family member deserves. Any sudden movement or accident (at any level), the animal will be much safer in its crate and secured by the seat belt in the back seat.
Rest: Depending on the animal’s age, the box can mean moments of peace and comfort. When still young, the little animal will have times of peace and rest for people who can’t resist its cuteness. When older, they need more rest for their paws that have already given (and give) a lot of joy to their owners. The box can also be a haven of peace and quiet for the animal.
HOW TO KNOW THE IDEAL SIZE OF THE TRANSPORT BOX?
The choice of the box depends on the animal, the breed and also its measurements. Always having as main focus the comfort and safety of the animal. The image below helps to take the best measurements and with them, calculate the ideal box size for the animal.
Calculate the box length: A + ½ of B
Gauging the box width: C x 2
Finding the box height: D + 7
To better illustrate, we give the following example:
Animal measurements: A=30cm / B=10 cm / C=15 cm / D=25 cm
Minimum box length: A (30) + ½ B (5) = 35cm | Minimum width: C (15) x 2= 30cm | Minimum height: D (25) + 7= 32cm | Minimum dimensions for transport box: 35cm x 30cm x 32cm
With the measurements of the animal and the due calculations, it is time to choose the box. There is currently a standard measurement base, as shown in the table below. It is important to remember that measurements are approximate and may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Table with standard measurements of animal carriers:
It is important to point out that each animal must be analyzed individually for international transport, as there may be a significant difference in measurements between animals of the same breed taking into account the points below:
Brachycephalic animals are accommodated in transport boxes larger than the size required by their size.
According to CR82 of the IATA manual (International Air Transport Association), some breeds are considered dangerous and must be accommodated in wooden boxes that meet certain standards.
If the animal is larger than the sizes shown above or has specific characteristics, we also produce wooden boxes according to the demand of this important member of the family. If you have any questions about the breed of your dog or cat, we can help with all the necessary information.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORTATION
The transport box is necessary even when transporting by land or even taking the animal to the airport, so we have developed an exclusive van for this purpose.
In air transport or international air travel, unlike guide dogs, the transport box is the only way to carry your pet. In the cabin or cargo compartment, the animal must be kept in the crate.
Each airline, apart from following the IATA manual, also has its requirements and regulations, so the animal must comply with international and airline rules to make the trip.
If the transport box is refused by the airline (outside of the above-mentioned standards), the process will be canceled. Only after replacing the refused transport box with the most suitable one, it is possible to start a new process, which will be later rescheduled according to the airline’s availability.
To avoid such inconvenience, the requirements are usually:
Sturdy shipping box
Good ventilation (minimum 20% of its structure ventilated)
Ceiling cannot be ventilated
The transport box door must have an external safety lock
Space that allows the animal to freely turn 360º, lie down and get up naturally and comfortably way, with a minimum distance of 7cm to the ceiling.
Transport boxes with wheels or with fastening clips are not accepted
It must be mounted with screws and contain at least three screws on each side.
Transporting pets can be a complex process due to airline requirements due to bureaucratic issues and the diversity of legislation applicable in each country, but don’t worry, Global International Relocation’s Pets department, GLOBAL PETS, has a team experienced and dedicated to streamlining the process with an integrated and personalized service offering. Talk to us!
With Global Pets, you are guaranteed that these very special members of the family will quickly join you at the desired destination, in all comfort and safety.
Good trip!