Measurements are often needed for pet transport which involves the animal being housed in an animal crate for all or part of their journey. This is to accurately size the most comfortable crate for them to travel, while adhering to the airline and animal transport welfare regulations.
Dog measuring for pet shipping
- A = length of animal from tip of nose to base/root of tail.
- B = height from ground to elbow joint.
- C = width across shoulders or widest point (whichever is the greater).
- D = height of animal in natural standing position from top of the head or the ear tip to the floor (whichever is higher).
These measurements are then used to determine the appropriate size travel crate for your dog using the formula in the image.
Cat Measuring for pet shipping
The length (L) and height (H) are sufficient to determine the crate size required for a cat. Specific airlines will have guidelines on how much additional headroom is required for the animal in transit.
Weighing your pet
Animal weight is important to fit within the travel crate tolerance, and to help calculate air cargo costs. The easiest method is use a recent vet assessment report. If that is not available, you can use regular bathroom scales at home. First measure yourself with the scales on a solid and flat surface, then weigh yourself again while holding your cat or dog and calculate the difference.
If your pet is reluctant to be held or picked up, you can try to coax them on to the scales with their favourite food, treat, pet. Just remember to subtract the weight of anything additional from the scales used to persuade them on it.
Final Remarks
You can either purchase the travel crate yourself based on these measurements or let your pet shipper provide this as part of their service. If purchasing yourself, you can confirm with your animal transporter on the size as they will have experience with different animals, breeds and cargo companies. If in doubt, round up to ensure maximum comfort for your furry companion!