Product Reviews
Why trust us?
eXtreme Dog Fence invests its time and energy researching, analyzing and testing products in order to recommend the best choices for most consumers. All products are bought with our own funds, never accepting freebies from manufacturers.
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Impact Collapsible
Aluminum Dog Crate
Highly durable. Ideal for Extra Large Dogs, but also available in different sizes.
Collapsible, so you can fold it down flat when you aren’t using it.
Quite heavy and may be difficult to assemble.
Petmate
Sky Kennel
Well-ventilated and affordable.
Available in multiple sizes, made from recycled plastic.
Meets MOST airline requirements.
Petmate
Two Door Top Load Dog Kennel
Durable, convenient and comfortable.
Has double doors that are made of steel.
Ideal for small dogs only.
Petmate Aspen
Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Carrier
Features an easy open latch that can be opened with just one hand
Secure and easy to assemble
Meets MOST airline requirements
Petmate Remington
Ruff Max Kennel
Ideal for small pets. Meets most airline specifications
Easy to assemble, offers 360 degree ventilation
Only accommodates pets between 10 to 20 pounds.
How we decided
Every product we review is purchased with our own funds. No freebies are ever accepted from product manufacturers.
- 84 Models Considered
- 10 Hours Researched
- 1 Experts Interviewed
- 94 Consumers Consulted
Pets
Shopping Guide for Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
Last Updated January 2019
Although most airlines allow pets to be transported in the baggage area, others don’t. The bottom line is that all airlines have specific rules and regulations in regards to pets traveling on airplanes. Airlines that allow animals to be transported in the baggage area may have very specific guidelines that must be met, in regards to the pet travel crate. For all of these reasons, before you head out to the airport with your pet, make sure that the travel crate you have will meet all of the requirements of the airline you have chosen.
Consider the Size
It pretty much goes without saying that you need to make sure you have the right size travel crate for your dog. Your pet should be able to comfortably sit, stand and lie in a comfortable position.
Sturdiness
Dogs tend to get nervous when they are flying, and as a result may chew on the kennel. This is why it is crucial to choose a pet travel cage that is secure and made of a durable material. Most travel crates are made of plastic, which is nice and lightweight. However, this may not be sufficient for larger, stronger-willed dogs. This is why our #1 choice is a travel kennel that is made of aluminum.
Comfortable
A lot of the comfort factor goes back to the travel crate being the right size for your pet. Your pet should be able to comfortably lie down, turn, move and sit. If they can’t do all of these things, they will obviously be uncomfortable. Also be certain that the kennel you choose is able to fit food, bowls, and a pillow or absorbent bedding. Having proper ventilation in the crate is also an imperative factor to your pet staying comfortable.
Preparing the Pet Carrier
There are several things that must be done to prepare your pet’s crate for airline travel.
- The cage needs to be properly assembled, with everything screwed in properly and fastened. You should simply follow the instructions that came with your crate.
- Affix the animal stickers to your crate. Fill out your declarations sticker and stick it to the top of the crate.
- Provide Certification. Your dog’s veterinary certifications should be enclosed in a vinyl sleeve and attached with tape to the top of your crate.
- The crate should be washed with soap and water, and disinfected if necessary, beforehand. Place absorbent bedding inside of the crate.
- Place food and water inside of the crate.
Where will my pet go in the aircraft?
In most cases, small dogs can go in the cabin, stowed beneath the seat in front of you. However, some airlines don’t allow any dogs in the cabin, no matter what size they are. This is why it is so important to check with your airline first. Pets that are larger will be transported as special baggage in a hold that is properly ventilated.