PET CARRIERS AND
HOUSES
Let’s say your pet
needs to go to the veterinarian. Or you’re spending the weekend
at your grandmother’s and you want to bring your pet with you.
Or you’re going camping with your family, and since you know your
Labrador would really enjoy romping in the woods, you want to take him
with you on your vacation.
In all these situations,
a pet carrier is crucial. There’s no reason why pets can’t
travel, but owners have to take special precautions so that they remain
safe during the trip and don’t put any of the passengers at risk.
Remember animals aren’t used to being cooped up or being in a
moving vehicle, and they might become bored, restless or even agitated
during the trip. Pet carriers prevent them from distracting the driver,
jumping out or getting lost, damaging property, attacking strangers,
or causing any “accidents” in their instinct to mark the
unfamiliar territory.
PET CARRIERS
When you are choosing a pet carrier, these are some factors to consider:
• Size. The size of
the carrier must complement with the size of your vehicle and the size
of your pet. (This already assumes that you have chosen a pet that is
suited to your lifestyle; it would pose a great logistical problem to
bring a Saint Bernard if you have a two-seater car.)
• Ventilation. Some models offer full confinement. with only one
opening which acts as the carrier’s entrance and exit. It is commonly
used for confining cats. Others have bars with no full enclosures, and
re best for lare dogs. Regardless of which you choose, make sure that
your pet can won’t suffocate from lack of oxygen or become overheated
because of the lack of breeze.
• Comfort. Your pet should be able to stretch or shift positions,
in order to allow proper blood circulation and prevent muscle cramping.
The best carriers will also allow him to walk around a bit, with allowance
for a suitable sleeping area.
PET HOUSES
Unlike pet carriers, pet houses are permanent structures where your
pet can sleep or rest. There are many different kinds of pet houses,
and in many different styles, but the most important consideration is
sturdiness and comfort. Outdoor pets need pet houses that can shield
it from the elements: a roof that is rainproof, secured walls, and an
elevated foundation so water doesn’t creep into its floors. In
this way, it protects your pet from damp, the heat of the sun, and ground
moisture.
Some of the more expensive pet houses will have additional features
like gyms or elevated floors where they can play and exercise, lights,
miniature curtains, or elaborate facades. You can even find pet houses
that are constructed to look like Medieval castles or Oriental palaces.
Some websites will even customize it to become a miniature version of
your own home.
Aside from dog and cat houses, there are cages for birds, and aquariums
for fish, turtles, snakes, and spiders. Venomous pets need to be secured
by sliding glass for additional security. Net boxes, on the other hand,
are for butterflies, dragonflies, and other winged insects.
