Using dog travel crates while trip

If you're taking your dogs on vacation, using dog travel crates is the safest way to travel. They will protect him from taking a flying leap if you must suddenly slam on your breaks or get in an accident. Follow the directions below so you and your favorite fur friend will have a safe and relaxing trip.

Instructions

Step 1

When traveling by car, the safest place for your dog is in the back seat. Clear out a space large enough for his travel crate t fit in the seat plus a small area in front of the flap so he can get inside.

If there is not room in the back seat, the crate can be placed in the cargo area of a van or SUV. Be prepared for a dog to talk to you more though since he cannot see you.

Step 2

Buckle up for safety.

Put the crate in the car. When using a soft or folding ones, there will be two places for you to put the seat belt through to stabilize it. Simply put the seat belt through the loop and buckle as normal.

Some people use airline crates or travel carriers when traveling. This is ok, but they do not have a way to stabilize or make sure it does not shift during the trip. Pack suitcases, pillows, sleeping bags, etc. around it in order to wedge it place so there is less of chance of them tumbling onto the floor if you must brake suddenly.

Step 3

Put a suitcase, cooler, sleeping bag, or pillows in the floor if the crate hangs over the edge of the seat. That ill help the crate not fold down in case your dog lays up against the side and gives him more security.

Step 4

Travel water bowls keeps the car clean and dogs hydrated.

Place the travel water bowl inside the crate the day of the trip. They are specially designed to not spill and take up little room. Fill the bowl with several cubes of ice so as that your dog ill have fresh, cool water all day.

Step 5

Open the car door and travel crate flap. Give your dog a "car" or "hup" command. Have him get into the crate. Zip the flap shut. Some dogs are intelligent enough to open it if there is a small opening, but a small D ring though the holes in both zippers will stop even the most expert of escape artists.

Tips & Warnings

• At least a week before any major trip, have your dog get into his travel crate and drive around town. This will get him more used to the feel of the car and road.
• Never place a dog in the car trunk.