We enjoy traveling and try to travel as much as possible. When we go…we like to take our cat Romeo along with us. He turned 2 years old back in September and is on the larger size when it comes to cats. No, he’s not overweight, just a big boy!!! He’s so loveable and a big part of our family.

When we travel by car we place him in a pet carrier to get into the vehicle and when we get out. He’s an indoor cat and doesn’t go outside at all. Once we’re all situated in the vehicle we let him out so that he can lay down on the backseat. If we’re taking a long trip, he’ll go in and out of the carrier on his own depending on his mood.

Over the past 2 years we’ve tried out several different type’s of carriers and the newest one is the best that we’ve ever had. First, I’m going to share some tips with you on buying an airline approved carrier and then I’ll tell you about the one that we purchased and used.

Tips for Buying an Airline Approved Pet Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats

1. Size – You need to consider the size of the carrier and your pet. There should be enough room inside it for them to turn around and to lay down comfortably. Measure your pet from nose to tail to come up with their measurements and use those measurements when purchasing one.

2. Weight – You need to know how much your pet weighs. Make sure that you buy one that corresponds with the weight of your pet.

3. Luggability – Can you comfortably carry it around from point A to point B with your pet inside it? Is it too heavy? Too flimsy? We recommend one that features a shoulder strap and carrying handles. Both options come in handy!

4. Entry Points – Our vet reccomends a carrier with a top and front entry point. As a vet, she prefers getting the animal out via the top. Some pets do better going in/out via the top or via the side.

5. Comfort – Make sure that it comes with a comfortable pad or you buy one and place inside it. You don’t want your pet getting pressure point sores. The pad should be removable for washing.

6. Cleaning – Can you hose it down for cleaning? Can you toss it into a washing machine and then line dry? It will need to be cleaned after each use. This will eliminate the transfer of germs from one place to another.

The pet carrier that we purchased is from Amazon. It has all of the features that we listed above and is easy for us to lug around. Plus, Romeo enjoys being in it. Comfortably it will accomodate dogs and cats 15-20 lbs. according to the manufacturer. In my honest opinion, I would say up to 18 lbs. maximum. For cleaning, I would recommend spot cleaning the carrier but the pad is removable and can be machine washed. You can learn more about the Airline Approved Pet Carrier by checking it out on Amazon. Well worth the price!

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