Travel Crates & Kennels

​​Choosing t​​​​​he ​Right Crate​

• Purchase your crat​e or travel kennel in advance and give your pet time to get used to being in the crate.
• Before purchasing a crate or travel kennel, confirm it meets Intern​ational Air Transport Association (IATA) pet container requirements​ for size, ventilation and security. Collapsible or “pop up" crates are not acceptable for pets shipped as cargo or excess baggage.
  
• Ensure the crate is well-ventilated, secure and large enough for your pet to stand, to sit erect, to lie in a natural position and to turn about normally while standing.
• Airlines will not accept crates or pet containers that do not meet IATA requirements​
  

Crate Trainin​​g an​​d Familiarization for Travel

• Leave the door open, place familiar bedding and toys inside and reward your pet for entering. Make the crate a welcome space for them. 
• Consider using pheromone sprays to help your pet feel more comfortable.
• ​Pheromone therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety during travel and the moving process.
• ​There are different pheromone products for cats and dogs. Talk to your veterinarian for more details on pheromone use and what would be best for your situation.
• Practice short car rides in the crate to help acclimate your pet to movement and vibrations. This is called desensitization and helps your pet get used to the motions and sounds of travel. This is also a great way to determine if your pet experiences motion sickness or can tolerate travel motions. If your pet experiences motion sickness, consult your veterinarian about potential medications or other solutions.