Dog Travel Cages

Importance of using dog travel cages

Using a dog cage is of high importance when travelling with your beloved pet. Keeping your dog in a cage while travelling in the car ensures the safety of both you and your dog. It prevents the dog from roaming around the car at will, jumping up at the passengers and being a big distraction to the driver, which could result in an accident. Likewise if a dog is hanging out of a car window, this is a distraction to both you and other drivers and is equally as dangerous.

On long journeys, don’t forget to stop and offer your dog water and exercise.

Choosing the right cage

There are a variety of dog travel cages on the market and it is important to choose the right one for the comfort of your dog and one that fits easily into your car.

The cage should be big enough with enough space around the dog for him to stand up, turn around and lie down.

Many cages are designed with a sloping side, making them easy to fit into a hatchback car.
Some companies will custom make a cage to fit the contours of your car.

Dog travel cages can be constructed from different materials, the most common being metal wire, plastic, chrome and stainless steel.

Most cages come with a carry handle and are collapsible.

For larger and/or heavier cages, heavy duty wheels can be purchased to enable you to pull the cage along in between the car and house rather than carrying it.

Cages can come with 1, 2 or even 3 doors, allowing for easy access. Make sure that the doors can be secured in a way that your dog cannot tamper with them and escape, but ensure that they are able to be easily opened by you in an emergency.

Air travel

If you are transporting your dog by air, check with the airline you are flying with as to their specific requirements.

High impact plastic cages are usually required to transport your dog by air. Make sure the locking mechanisms on it are strong and secure and that there is adequate ventilation.

Optional additions

To ensure your dog’s comfort while travelling, you may wish to consider adding some of the following:

• A metal floor pan (some cages will already have this included).
• A cushion, mat or blanket.
• A lightweight canopy made of reflective material to block sunlight. These are specially weaved to allow the air to circulate to ensure ventilation and to keep your pet cool.
• A thermostatically controlled fan.

Getting your dog used to the cage

Don’t expect your dog to automatically want to get into the cage from day one. Leave the cage in a room which is well used by the family so that he has company and allow your dog to explore it in his own time.

You could try putting toys or sometimes treats or even meals into the cage to encourage your dog to enter it.

Some dogs will get used to the cage quicker than others, but it is important not to force the dog into it and you should never use it as a form of punishment.

Buying tips

Dog travel cages are offered at reasonable prices by many on-line retailers, some of whom also offer free shipping.

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