Pet Carriers


Pet carriers provide safety and comfort for your pet while traveling, whether it is on a short car trip or a long airline flight. The best pet carrier is the one that meets your needs and those of your pet.

All carriers need openings for ventilation. Some have large openings that allow your pet to see all around, while others are more solidly enclosed, with small openings just for air flow. Pets that derive a sense of safety and security from nesting into a small, private space would prefer the more enclosed carrier, while those that feel restless and anxious unless they can see what is going on around them are better off in a more open carrier.

Typically, carriers are made of either metal or plastic. Metal carriers look like cages; they provide a container but no privacy. With padding in the bottom, these carriers essentially provide an open-air bed for the animal. Plastic carriers are usually molded, with a door that opens either on the top or the side. Top-door models are usually used for cats, which will seldom volunteer to enter the carrier and must be put in. Side door models are good choices for dogs, which will often walk into the carrier, appreciating the sense of security it provides.

If your pet will be traveling by air, make sure that your choice of carrier meets the requirements of the airline. Help ensure your pet's comfort as well as safety by padding the bottom of the carrier.