Best Crates For Dogs On Flights: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to air travel, ensuring your dog has a safe and comfortable crate is of utmost importance. The best dog crates for airline travel will adhere to airline standards, providing ample ventilation, the ability for your dog to stand, turn around, sit and lie down, and be made from approved materials.

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a popular and affordable option, made from heavy-duty plastic and featuring good ventilation. The Diggs Revol Collapsible Crate is another option, which is ideal for car travel as it collapses down to a compact size. For smaller dogs, the Sleepypod Air is a good choice, fitting under most cabin seats and coming with straps to secure it to a middle seat.

It's important to do your research, as each airline has different rules and requirements for dog crates, and you'll want to ensure your dog has a safe and comfortable journey.

Crate size and weight

When it comes to airline-approved dog crates, size matters. The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For domestic flights, the length of the kennel must be equal to the length of your dog from the tip of his nose to the root of his tail, plus half the height from the ground to the elbow joint. The width of the kennel must be equal to the width across the shoulders multiplied by two, and the height of the kennel must be equal to the height of your dog from the ground to the top of their head. For international flights, the length of the kennel must be equal to the length of your dog from the tip of their nose to the root of their tail, plus the height from the ground to the elbow joint. The width of the kennel must be equal to the width across the shoulders plus one, multiplied by two, and the height of the kennel must be equal to the height of your dog from the ground to the top of their head, plus three inches.

In addition to these size requirements, the weight of the dog and crate combined cannot exceed the maximum weight designated by the airline. For reference, American Airlines' weight limit is 100 pounds, while Alaska Airlines' limit is 150 pounds. If you have a larger dog, you may need to shop around for an airline that can accommodate their weight.

It is also important to note that the crate must be made of specific materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, or similar materials, and must have proper ventilation on two or four sides, depending on whether you are travelling domestically or internationally.

When choosing a dog crate for airline travel, it is crucial to consider the size and weight restrictions of the airline, as well as the specific requirements for the crate's materials and ventilation. By ensuring that your dog's crate meets these requirements, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.

Airline regulations

When travelling with a dog, it is important to ensure that the crate you choose complies with airline regulations. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set out specific rules for the approved types of containers for dogs flying in-cabin and as cargo, which have been accepted by most airlines.

Firstly, the crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The length of the kennel should be a minimum of the length of the dog, plus half of the animal's leg length. No part of your dog should be taller or longer than the kennel when standing outside of it, and the tips of its ears must not touch the sides. The crate should also be tall enough that the dog can sit with its ears touching the roof.

The crate must be made of solid and sturdy materials. Acceptable materials include fiberglass, metal, rigid plastics, weld metal mesh, solid wood or plywood. It should be composed of plastic, wood, metal or material of comparable strength and able to withstand the rigors of normal transportation. The crate must be leakproof and escape-proof, with a secure locking system. Many airlines will also require that the door be secured with cable ties at each corner. The door must be made of heavy plastic or welded/cast metal, and it must be nose and paw-proof. The crate should also be well-ventilated, with openings on a minimum of three sides for domestic flights, and four sides for international flights.

In addition, the crate must be clean and odour-free, with absorbent bedding made of safe and non-toxic materials. Food and water bowls must be attached to the inside of the crate, and accessible without opening the door. A clear bag of food, with feeding instructions, should be taped to the top of the crate. It is also recommended to include an unwashed item of clothing with your scent on it, to provide comfort to your dog.

Finally, the crate must be clearly labelled with "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers, as well as a "Shipper's Declaration" stating when your dog was last fed and watered. Your dog's name and your contact information should also be attached to the outside of the crate.

Crate materials

According to IATA guidelines, dog crates for air travel must be made of specific materials such as wood, metal, plastic, or similar materials. The use of these materials ensures the crate's durability and provides a secure environment for the dog. Metal and plastic are common choices for crate construction due to their strength and ability to withstand wear and tear.

Additionally, the door of the crate must be made of metal grates or solid metal and should fasten shut securely. Some airlines may require the use of zip ties or cable ties to further secure the door and prevent accidental openings or escapes.

The top and bottom portions of the crate should be securely fastened with nuts and bolts, ensuring that all hardware is made of metal to comply with airline regulations. It is important to note that plastic nuts and bolts may need to be replaced with metal ones to meet these requirements.

The ventilation requirements for dog crates also impact the choice of materials. For domestic travel, carriers must have appropriate ventilation on three sides, while for international travel, ventilation is required on four sides. The materials used should be durable enough to prevent dogs from poking through any gaps or perforations in the crate.

When selecting a dog crate for airline travel, it is essential to prioritise materials that are sturdy, escape-proof, and well-ventilated. By choosing a crate that meets these criteria and complies with IATA and airline regulations, you can ensure the safety and comfort of your dog during their journey.

Crate ventilation

The type of ventilation also matters. Ventilation is typically provided in the form of metal grates or perforations in the plastic walls of the crate. Metal grates are generally considered stronger and safer, especially for dogs that are aggressive chewers. Perforations in the plastic walls can provide ample ventilation but may be insufficient to prevent a dog from chewing through the plastic and escaping.

When choosing a crate with adequate ventilation, it is also important to consider the size and design of the crate, the strength and durability of the materials, and whether the crate meets airline specifications and regulations.

Crate accessories

When it comes to accessories for your dog's crate, there are a few essentials to keep in mind to ensure your dog's comfort and safety during air travel. Here are some key accessories to consider:

• Absorbent pads and cushy mats: It is important to provide a comfortable and absorbent bed for your dog to lie on during their journey. Look for low-profile, washable, and preferably waterproof mats that fit the dimensions of the crate. You can also use absorbent pads or wee-wee pads to protect against any accidents.
• Food and water bowls: Most airlines require that food and water bowls be attached to the inside of the crate door and refillable from the outside. You can find spill-resistant and attachable bowls to ensure your dog stays hydrated and fed during the flight.
• Live animal stickers: "Live Animal" stickers are mandatory for air travel and should be placed on the top and sides of the crate, with arrows indicating which side should be up. These stickers alert handlers to treat the crate with care and ensure your dog's safety.
• Zip-ties: To secure the crate door, you will need quick-release zip-ties. These are essential for keeping the door closed during transport and can easily be cut upon arrival to release your dog.
• Travel accessory kit: Consider purchasing a travel kit that includes essential items such as absorbent pads, food and water bowls, live animal stickers, temporary pet ID tags, shipping identification stickers, and metal nuts and bolts. This kit from Petmate ensures you have all the necessary accessories in one convenient package.
• Leash: Include a leash in a plastic bag taped to the outside of the crate. This will come in handy during layovers or upon arrival, allowing you to walk your dog before they are released from the crate.
• Toys and familiar items: Avoid including hard toys that could injure your dog during the flight. Instead, opt for soft or plush toys, or items with familiar scents, such as an unwashed t-shirt. This can help comfort your dog and make them feel more at ease during the journey.
• Health certificates and travel documents: If travelling internationally, tape any required health certificates or travel documents to the outside of the crate. Mark the bag clearly as "Do not remove! Original documents." This ensures that important paperwork stays with your dog throughout the journey.

By equipping your dog's crate with these accessories, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience for your four-legged friend.

Frequently asked questions