Understand Pet Shipping

Pets, like any member of the family, have special needs when being transported and you may need to hire pet shipping services when necessary. Pet shipping services are an ideal option when you need to move your pet from one place to another, or when you relocate, and it's impractical to carry the pet with you in the van or car. However, pet shipping should be entrusted only to licensed and experienced pet movers. Here are some guidelines and some information to help you know more about pet shipping.

1. Know the right kennel size. Since your pet is traveling a long distance, the pet shipping service should be able to provide a comfortable space for the animal. Your pet should have enough room to be able to sit, turn and lie down. A limited and cramped space will make it weak and stressed during travel and so the pet shipping company should ensure that this will not happen. As such, the rate and fees for shipping depend on the size of your pet.

   To help in identifying the right size of kennel, you need to measure the length and height then add a minimum of 6 inches to the measurement. However, if you think that you can spend some extra money to provide a bigger kennel space for your pet, then you may request this with the pet shipping company.

   Remember, the pet shipping service focuses on your pet's comfort and if they feel that it may need a bigger kennel, they will require you this, or might cancel the shipping service for fear of stressing your pet. So, it is extremely important to get the right kennel size to avoid these kinds of surprises.
2. Choose between regular or private shipping. The regular pet shipping service provides shipping for multiple pets during travel under the care of one or two employees. However, if you want to ensure that your pet is taken care of exclusively, then you can opt for a private shipping service. With such an arrangement, your pet will be traveling alone. This type of service is also ideal if your pet is suffering from any medical condition. This will assure that all the medical needs of your pet will be attended to, and that it will not transfer the sickness to other pets.
3. Plan and schedule ahead of time. You should plan your pet's travel a few weeks in advance.. Contact a pet shipping company ahead of time and provide the dates most convenient for you for pick-up and delivery.  Scheduling ahead of time is necessary to ensure that your request will be accommodated. You may also discuss some preferences and options for time and date of transfer with the pet shipping company.
4. Prepare the necessary documents. The pet shipping company might require you to submit a medical certificate and rabies vaccination certificate for your pet to ensure that it is safe to transport. It is best to visit your veterinarian at least 10 days before travel.

Remember, the comfort and safety of your pet is of utmost concern. Do feel free to discuss specifics with your pet shipping company of choice, and don't be afraid to do background checks.