Make the carrier part of the furniture
Most pets only see their carrier when something worrying is about to happen. A few days before the ride, leave it out in a room they like, door open, with a soft blanket inside. Let them wander in and out on their own, and drop a treat inside now and then. By ride day, getting in is much less of a surprise.
Practice a little
For dogs, a couple of short practice trips help: in their crate or harness, around the block and home again, with a treat at the end. For cats, closing the carrier door for a minute or two while they’re relaxed, then opening it again, teaches them it isn’t always the start of something big.
Pack a small bag
A lead, a familiar blanket and any food they’ll need at the other end. If they’re heading to boarding, add feeding notes and anything the team has asked for. Label the bag with their name and tell us what’s inside, so we can go through it with the person receiving them.
Keep the morning quiet
A short walk for dogs and a calm room for cats. Keep breakfast light if they’re not great in the car, unless your vet has advised something different. For cats, put them in their carrier before we arrive, in a room with the door closed, so nobody has to chase anyone.
At the door
Dogs should be on their lead when you open the door. We’ll say hello, check their bag and notes with you, and settle them into their travel space. If you’d like to say goodbye, keep it short and cheerful. Pets pick up on how we feel.
Your next conversation
Tell us where your pet is going, who will meet them at each end and the date you have in mind, or call us on (202) 555-0109. We’ll plan the ride with you.
Before ride day
- Carrier or crate left out at home for a few days
- A blanket or toy that smells like home
- A small labeled bag with lead and food
- Notes for the person at the other end
- A light breakfast on ride morning
- Cats in their carrier before we arrive
