What is the Best Way to Transport a Dog?

If you are a pet parent, this is a familiar question that’s sure to pop up at some point in your furry friend’s lifetime. Whether for a vet appointment, an out-of-state vacation, or even relocating to another part of the country, there are multiple scenarios where your beloved pet will need to travel. While dogs are quite resilient and capable of going the distance, you want to ensure their journey is safe and comfortable. After all, your best friend deserves the best! So what is the best way to transport a dog?

To ensure your pet travels in the safest and most comfortable possible way, let’s explore the various pet transport options.

What’s the Best Way to Transport a Dog?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The type of transportation you choose will depend on your pet’s size, age, breed, overall health, and the distance of their journey.

You also need to consider other factors like safety, speed, comfort, and budget before settling on an option.

Considering all the factors, here are some of the most popular ways to transport a dog:

#1. Air Travel 

Air travel is a great option if you need to move your pet to a long distance in a hurry. Similarly, if your pet is traveling internationally, air travel might be the only option to get them there.

While air travel is the fastest way to get your pet to its destination, it is important to evaluate the risks and regulations involved.

For instance, most airlines have strict regulations on which animal breeds they will allow to travel. In that regard, most do not accept pets like pugs, bulldogs, and other brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds as they suffer from breathing difficulties during flights.

Additionally, air travel requires a lot of paperwork — you may need to secure health certificates, import permits, and other documents depending on the country of origin and destination.

Also, if you plan to fly your pet in the cabin, there are size and weight restrictions to consider. Most airlines require your pet to travel in a crate that fits under an airplane seat if they must travel in the cabin.

This might work for small breeds like a Chihuahua or a Yorkie, but if you have a larger pet like a golden retriever or a German shepherd, you may need to transport them in the cargo hold of the plane.

Also, keep in mind that the cost of transport can add up quickly as you will need to pay for the pet’s ticket, pet crate, and other fees.

Air Travel with a Flight or Air Nanny

What happens when you cannot take your pet on the plane with you? It’s time to call in the Air Nanny!

Air nannies are professionals specifically trained to accompany your pet on their flight. Whether your pup flies as a passenger in the cabin or as cargo (depending on size and breed), the air nanny’s job is to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

These nannies also provide various services, such as walking your pet through airport security, taking care of your furry friend during the actual flight, and providing them with all the care and attention they need.

#2. Train Transport

One of the more affordable ways to transport your pet is by train. Also, train transport may be perfect for you if you are okay with your pet traveling with several other pets.

Similar to air travel, many rail transport services have restrictions on the size and type of pet allowed onboard. Amtrak, for example, only allows small cats and dogs in the cabin as long as they are in a carrier that can fit beneath the seat.

Although train transport may require little paperwork, checking their pet policy and the routes they take before you book is important.

#3. Ground Transport

For most people, the go-to choice for getting a pup from point A to point B is traveling by road.

With ground transport, your pet will be transported in a comfortable and safe vehicle. Though the journey may take longer, you can rest assured that your pup will get to its destination safe and sound.

While driving your pet yourself might have crossed your mind, it is a lot of responsibility and can take up much of your time.

Instead, you can use CitizenShipper to find certified drivers who safely transport your pet.

Hiring a Pet Transport Professional

Whether you need to move your pet across the country or just a few counties away, it’s definitely worth hiring a professional. A pet transport professional will typically transport your animal in a suitable vehicle. Not to mention that they will keep an eye on your pet, providing food and bathroom breaks during the trip.

Moreover, they can also provide additional services such as door-to-door transport and VIP transport service, which can substantially reduce the stress associated with traveling for both you and your furry friend. Plus, these transporters are usually familiar with the regulations of the area you are traveling to, making the whole process easier and more seamless.

Thankfully, you can find these professionals on CitizenShipper — just enter your origin and destination points to get started.

Using CitizenShipper to Transport a Dog

CitizenShipper is the perfect place to find reliable flight nannies and pet transport professionals dedicated to getting your furry friend to their destination safely and comfortably.

Whether you’re looking for a flight nanny to accompany your pet on the plane or a professional to do the driving for you, CitizenShipper is your one-stop shop. Simply enter your pet’s travel details, and you’ll receive quotes from reliable and vetted drivers on the platform.

When you use drivers on CitizenShipper, you can take advantage of our competitive bidding system, which allows you to select the best driver for your needs at the best price. Also, you can enjoy other value-added features like a $1,000 Pet Protection Plan, 24/7 FirstVet Services, and an instant messaging feature that lets you communicate with drivers directly.

Conclusion

When it comes to transporting your pet, the best option is not always clear-cut. Your final decision will typically depend on your pet’s needs, preferences, and how much money you are willing to spend.

But, regardless of which method you choose, your pet’s safety and comfort should be your top priority.

So be sure to research, weigh the pros and cons of each option, get an accurate cost estimate, and find a reliable transporter who will make sure your pet gets to its destination safely and happily.

Post a free listing on CitizenShipper today and get multiple quotes in minutes!

Adaeze Nwakaeze

Adaeze Nwakaeze is a content writer with a knack for delivering engaging, informative content. With a background in writing, she excels at creating compelling pieces that capture her readers’ attention.