Acclimating your pet to their travel crate is not just about ensuring a smooth journey—it’s essential for their safety and well-being. A pet that feels comfortable and secure in their crate is less likely to experience stress, which can manifest as excessive barking, whining, or destructive behavior. For instance, a dog that hasn’t been properly acclimated might try to escape, injuring themselves in the process, or a cat could become so anxious that they refuse to eat or drink, leading to dehydration. Additionally, airlines have specific regulations for pet travel, and a distressed pet might not be allowed to board [New York Post 2024]. By taking the time to acclimate your pet to their travel crate, you can prevent these issues, ensuring a safer and more pleasant experience for both you and your furry friend.
Stay Calm and Prepare Early
It’s crucial to stay calm during the acclimation process. Your stress can significantly impact your pet, potentially increasing their anxiety [Sundman et al 2019]. By remaining calm, you help your pet feel more at ease. Since your pet will spend several hours in their travel crate, possibly up to 20 hours, it’s important to ensure the crate is the right size (see our essential guide on crate sizing). Once you have the appropriately sized crate, you can begin the acclimation process.
Familiarize Your Pet with the Crate
Start by obtaining the crate as soon as you confirm your pet will be traveling. This allows ample time for acclimation. Ensure the crate is IATA airline-approved (see how to choose the right pet travel crate). If unsure, consult with a pet travel agent or refer to a reliable shopping list, like our recommended pet travel products.
When the crate arrives, familiarize your pet with it. Wipe down the crate with a piece of laundry that smells like home, which helps your pet associate the crate with familiar and comforting scents. Place the bottom half of the crate in a well-frequented area where your pet can observe it without feeling threatened. Allow your pet to sniff and explore it at their own pace.
Encourage Entry and Comfort
Gradually get your pet used to being placed in the crate. Use treats, toys, and items that smell like home to encourage them to enter and stay inside the crate. For instance, place the crate in areas your pet likes to relax. Use long-lasting treats attached to the crate or hide treats in pillowcases or blankets inside the crate to encourage longer stays.
Once your pet is comfortable with the bottom half, add the top. Continue to interact with the crate, using it creatively as a side table or similar to make it a normal part of your pet’s environment. Then, attach the door to the crate but keep it open initially. Use a string or bungee cord to allow the door to swing freely, helping your pet get used to its movement.
Close the Door Gradually
Finally, start closing the door for short periods, gradually increasing the duration as your pet becomes more comfortable. The goal is to have your pet remain calm with the door closed for extended periods. This process requires time and patience. Avoid creating negative associations with the crate. Allow your pet to progress at their own pace, ensuring they always feel safe and secure.
Transcon Pet Movers hopes these steps help in acclimating your pet to their travel crate. We welcome any feedback or additional tips to improve this process for other pet owners.
Related reading: Essential Guide: Preparing Your Pet’s Travel Crate for a Smooth Journey, 2026 Pet Air Travel Reality Check
References
- Alex Mitchell. My dog wasn’t allowed to board my flight — I’m convinced there’s a no-fly list for pets. New York Post (2024). link
- Sundman, AS., Van Poucke, E., Svensson Holm, AC. et al. Long-term stress levels are synchronized in dogs and their owners. Sci Rep 9, 7391 (2019). link
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