PETS TRAVEL TIPS

The size of pet container - particularly by air is governed by legislation
and so it is critical to ensure your container is of the correct minimum
dimensions and has the necessary and adequate ventilation required. The
internal crate measurement has to be greater than the length of the pet,
from the tip of the nose to the base (not tip) of the tail and in height
greater than from floor to top of head - allowing space to stand, turnaround
and lie down. On the day of departure, be sure to follow the vet's advice
regarding feeding. Pets can be fastidious and if fed too close to their
departure time, may soil their container. It is better they should arrive a
little hungry and clean.
Sedation is not advised as if there were any illness or upset, the sedation
may mask the symptoms and therefore delay treatment. Only in extreme cases
should you sedate your pet prior to travel. If you do sedate, only do so on
veterinary advice. Sometimes it may be wise to ask for two doses, so
enabling you to sedate your pet at home - 10 days in advance of travel,
under observation, in order to note the speed at which the sedation takes
effect and the time for which it has an effect. You will then have a more
accurate guideline as to when to administer it. Finally, if you do sedate
your pet, it is critical that you advise the quarantine premises in advance
that you are doing so and advise which particular sedative has been used and
at what dosage.