Preparing Crates for Animal Shipping to the UK

The USDA Vet gave me the following tips for safe transport and I thought I would share:

• Purchase plastic tie downs to secure the sides of the crate.  This keeps the crate together if the nuts and bolts get loosened in transit.  If the airline allows, also use two plastic tie downs to secure the door of the crate in case the locking mechanism gets tripped.  This will prevent the door from opening and the animal from running out.
• Freeze the water in the dish that will go in the crate to provide the animal with water but prevent major spillage.
• Get an inexpensive pet tag at PetsMart or Petco.  Put the animal's name and UK contact number on it and secure it to the crate door.
• Place absorbent pet liners in the floor of the crate.
• Put a warm padded bed in the crate for the comfort of your pet.
• Put a blanket that smells like you in the crate or an old t-shirt that smells like you.  This will help the animal feel safer and also provide warmth.
• Bring a baggie of food with you marked with your pet's name and flight number.  You can also bring a lead and a toy.  It is up to the airline whether or not they will allow the pet to have the toy.
• Bring your pet's favorite treat with you to the Animal Reception Center.  Once you have them, take them out of the crate and give them the treat and a snuggle.  Also providing them with the chance to relieve themselves is a must.