Choosing the right dog crate for moving home

If you’re moving home, no matter if you’re moving near or far away, you’ll also need to plan to move your pet. Crates can often provide substantial protection for your pet in the case of an accident. If you’re driving to your new home, a crate helps to keep your pet from distracting you too.

Picking the perfect crate for your pet is crucial, especially if you’re intending to fly. Airlines can refuse to transport your pet if their crate doesn’t meet the airline’s standards. Finding a crate to help move your pet whilst providing comfort can be a tricky task. We’ve listed the following guidelines to help you pick the perfect crate before your next home move.

Pet size = crate size

As a general rule of thumb, no part of your pet should be taller or longer than their crate when they’re standing outside of it. You should make sure the crate has plenty of space for them to stand up, turn around and stretch out comfortably. Additionally, most pets are taller when they sit than when they stand, so make sure you allow for some extra height when choosing the ideal crate.

Pet crates range from small (21” x 16” x 15”) to giant (48” x 32” x 35”). If your pet won’t fit in the largest size crate, you may have to get one custom built. Furthermore, the larger the crate the more expensive it is likely to be, and expect to pay even more for a custom-built crate too. To ensure you get the correct size crate for your dog or cat, measure from the top of their head when sitting to the floor and then from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Once you have these, add 4 inches to each measurement to ensure your pet has just the right amount of room.

Material matters

If you’ve already done some research, you’ll realise that crates can be made from a variety of materials and come in numerous different designs. Here are the most common materials you will come across when looking for the right crate for you:

• Plastic: sturdy plastic crates are required for transportation in airline cargo holds and also make for good all-around travel crates. However, thick plastic walls on pet crates can restrict ventilation and prevent your pet from seeing what’s going on around them. If you do choose a plastic pet crate, make sure it has a wire door and appropriate ventilation throughout.

• Wire: Wire crates will ultimately allow for much more airflow and visibility. However, the sense of openness can add to some pets anxiety rather than help it. If your pet is easily anxious from this type of scenario, you may be better with a plastic crate that allows them to feel protected.

• Soft-sided: There are also softer materials such as canvas and other lightweight material crates that work well for smaller animals. These crates are especially ideal for anyone flying with their pet as you can easily put these types of crates under the seat in front of you.

• Wood: Usually, pet owners purchase crates made out of wood to incorporate them into their home decor, not to transport their pet. Wooden crates easily become just as much as a piece of furniture as they are pet crates. However, if you’re only looking for a wooden crate, this can also be used to transport your pet in the car.

Plan your move

If you’re looking to move, it may be a lot less stressful to hire a professional moving company like Home Moovers, especially if you’re having to move pets too. This way you can have peace of mind that your belongings will arrive at your new home safely, whilst you take care of your pets.

Get a free online quote to discover how much you could move for.