If you have a pet the chances are that you’ll need a pet carrier in order to safely transport your pet to the vet, the groomer, or just to their favourite playground! But how do you know which pet carrier to choose?  Here we’ve put together a guide that covers everything you need to know. Read on for more.

Types of Pet Carriers

There are three main types of pet carriers to choose from, each of which have their own features that may or may not be important to you.  These are:

• Cardboard carriers – cardboard carriers are designed to be used once or twice and they are made from a strong cardboard that is fitted with ventilation and view holes.  They are ideal if you only need to transport your pet to and from the vet once a year but be aware that they will deteriorate quickly and if your pet has an accident in them while travelling, they’ll turn into a soggy mess!
  
  
• Soft carriers – soft carriers are made from a flexible, soft padded material with a hard base so that your pet feels secure in them.  The base is often removable for easy cleaning.  One or more sides are made from a strong mesh to give your pet ventilation and the chance to see outside.  Soft carriers come with hand and shoulder straps so that you can carry them in the way that is most suited to you.  Generally speaking, soft carriers are better suited to smaller animals such as small dogs and cats.
  
  
• Hard carriers – hard carriers come in a range of sizes and they are made from a rigid, tough plastic with a hinged dor at one end.  The door latches securely so that your pet cannot escape.  Most hard pet carriers will have ventilation slots as well as the door.  Some hard pet carriers are all one piece while others have a top and bottom that can be separated.  Hard carriers can carry animals of all sizes and they are the only ones you can use if you intend to travel by air.

How Will You Be Using the Carrier?

One of the key questions that you need to answer is how you’ll be using the pet carrier.  If you like the idea of taking your pet with you around town or just want to transport your pet stylishly, a cute soft carrier is the way to go.  Soft carriers are also great for small car rides.  If you’re bringing your brand new pet home, a cardboard carrier is ideal – you can wait til your pet reaches adult size before choosing a permanent carrier for them!   If you want a carrier that you can transport your pet in by car or air, or just want the safest carrier possible, a hard carrier with a secure latch is the best choice.  You can make them more comfortable for your pet by putting old blankets or beds inside, and adding a water bottle to the door.

What Size Do You Need?

One thing that you want to do is to get the size of the carrier right. Too small and your pet will be uncomfortable, and too large and your pet will feel unsteady and insecure.  It is generally best to buy one smaller carrier for when they are young and then buy another one for when they are full grown.  The carrier needs to be big enough for your pet to turn around and stretch out comfortably but no bigger than that.

What is Your Budget?

Ideally, you’ll only be buying one or two carriers over your pet’s life but you should still keep your budget in mind.  If you’ll be using the carrier a lot, it is worthwhile springing for one of the more top of the line models.  However, if you’re on a lower budget and the carrier won’t be getting used that much, a more economical model may be perfect for you.

Check the Quality of the Carrier

Of course, no matter what your budget, you want a carrier that is of the highest quality and that, just as importantly, is safe for your pet.  Ensure that any zips, doors or latches are strong and secure and that they can’t be forced open by your pet.  There should be no sharp edges inside the carrier (or out, unless you want to risk being cut!) and the base should be sturdy enough to take your pet’s full grown weight.  Handles and straps should be securely fastened and easy to hold.