Choosing Types of Pet Carriers

Pet carriers are necessary to help you safely contain and transport your pet. Whatever size your dog or cat is, you can find the right carrier for them. Rather, choosing pet carriers requires you to consider what you will be doing with your pet. For smaller pet, many owners can choose to buy exclusive pet carriers that are similar to small handbags. This way you pet is always close at hand. For mid-sized dogs and cats, the most popular option is soft pet carriers. Large pet carriers are best for heavier pets because they are made out of sturdy plastic. There are even designer pet carriers if you want your pet to travel in style. When it comes to choosing pet carriers, the first thing you need to consider is if you actually need one.

Do You Need a Carrier?

The most common use for pet carriers is transportation to and from the vet office. Nearly all veterinarians will even require that cats and certain small dogs be brought in pet carriers. You may also need to use pet carriers when moving or to crate train a pet. If you travel with your pet often then you may also need to get special pet travel carriers that are approved for use on airplanes. It is always a good idea to have at least one carrier on hand per pet, this way you have a quick means of transportation should an emergency situation arise such as a fire or earthquake.

Selecting the Right Pet Carrier

When it comes to pet carriers, there are basically three types you can choose from: cardboard, soft, and hard. Your individual preference and how often you plan to use the carrier will determine the choice you make. If you will only use a carrier once a year for visits to the vet office then consider small car pet carriers. However, for longer trips you should make sure your carrier is big enough for your pet to stand up and turn around or to stretch out while sleeping.

Cardboard

Typically, cardboard pet carriers are just temporary choices. Most adoption centers will give you one to take your pet home. Usually the cardboard carrier will be replaced as the pet grows and you can determine what size carrier they are going to need for the rest of their life. However, cardboard pet carriers can also be an excellent option for those who want to save on space. Because they fold flat you can store several in a small area. This is especially helpful if you have a multiple pet household and need to have a lot of pet carriers on hand in case of an emergency.

Soft

Soft carriers are firm yet flexible, which make them excellent for the long trips. This way your pet is not only secure but also comfortable. Some soft pet carriers can also be collapsed down to be stored in a small area if you have limited space. Soft pet carriers also have the largest selection when it comes to choosing special carriers. There are a number of luxury pet carriers and designer pet carriers that are only available as soft pet carriers. This way you pet is safe while traveling in comfort and style.

Hard

If you want something durable then hard pet carriers are your best choice. These are the least flexible and take up the most storage space. However, they have been around for years and give you confidence that you are providing your pet with a safe transportation method. There are also a variety of hard pet carriers to choose from. For cats, there is a two-door model which opens from both the front and top to make it easier to get a cat into the carrier.

Preparing Your Pet for the Carrier

Most cats and some dogs will do anything to avoid being put into a carrier. This is why you should slowly introduce your pet to the carrier and get them used to the idea. This can also help make it easier to get your pet into the carrier quickly during emergencies when time is important. The best method to introduce a pet to the carrier is by leaving it in the middle of the living room. If your pet doesn't explore inside on their own, you can try placing some treats inside. Allow the pet to go in and out without trapping them inside and let them become familiar. Then you can start to close the door for a little bit of time while they are inside. Soon going inside the carrier won't be such a traumatic experience and then the next time you need to go somewhere with your pet you won't have to struggle with getting your pet into the carrier. Some pets can actually become so comfortable with a carrier that they start to use it as a piece of pet furniture or as a part of their playtime.