Posts tagged "CatCarrier"

As snuggly and affectionate as they are at home, let's face it: cats rarely make great travel companions. They don't like road trips, they don't like camping, and they never pitch in any gas money. And while driving across the country with a constantly meowing kitty in the backseat doesn't fit most people's idea of a good time, sometimes it must be done.

The good news is that pet travel doesn't have to be torturous. In fact, the experts say that traveling with your cat can be relatively painless -- even pleasant -- as long as you and your cat are well prepared for the adventure.

It's All About the Cat Carrier
Before we get started, we must warn you that nearly everything involved in traveling with a feline ties back into this all-important Cat Carrier Mantra: Get your cat comfortable with its carrier before you leave the house. This is absolutely crucial. According to former American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Greg Hammer, his clients frequently have to cancel their checkups because they can't get their cat into their cat carrier. If you can't get your cat across town to the vet's office, how can you possibly expect to get it on a plane?

Like dogs, cats are creatures of habit. The main difference is that cats are usually not at all acclimated to car rides and/or crates. "Cats don't go anywhere," Hammer tells Paw Nation, "They stay in their house, and when they go anywhere its usually someplace they hate, like the vet or the kennel." Aside from a cat's natural aversion to leaving its comfort zone, many are haphazardly trained to fear their crates. That's why you must un-train them.

The Sleepypod is a fabulous, fashionable and easy to use pet bed/carrier that Paw Nation has already reviewed (and loved). Wouldn't you love to have one of your own? Well, we want you to as well!

This week, we're giving away one medium Sleepypod in the winner's choice of color (Jet Black, Strawberry Red, Sky Blue, Dark Chocolate, Arctic White or Blossom Pink). That means a lucky Paw Nation reader's pet will start off the new year in comfort and style.

(And no, the precious puppy pictured above is not included -- sorry!)

And, as always, it's super easy to enter!

• To enter, leave a confirmed comment below telling us about a where you would take your pet in a Sleepypod.
• The comment must be left before 5 p.m. ET on Monday, December 28, 2009.
• You may enter only once.
• One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
• One winner will receive a medium Sleepypod in his or her choice of color (valued at $165).
• Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.
• Click here for complete Official Rules. Winner will be notified by e-mail, so be sure to provide a valid address!

When I'm looking for a dog carrier, fashion is just as important to me as function, which is why I decided to test out the Sleepypod -- a carrier and pet bed in one.

The Sleepypod, which starts at $140.00, works equally well for both cats and dogs, and functions not only as a carrier and a bed, but also as a secure car seat that can be buckled in for the safest transport of your beloved pet.

My dog loves her Sleepypod. Unlike the average rectangular-shaped pet carrier, the sturdy Sleepypod is round, with a plush lining that gives it the feel of a comfy little bird's nest, allowing your pet to curl up comfortably in a ball during transit. Plus, the round shape makes it easier to carry, and it looks cool to boot.

If you've ever tried to coax a kitty out of its carrier, you know that side openings can prove problematic. The Sleepypod's "door" opens from the top, allowing for easier entries and exits. Some cats may still spread those claws and resist, but I had a much easier time getting my cat inside the Sleepypod than I do into her Sherpa Bag. I am a huge fan of the luxe Sherpa line, but the Sleepypod's unique design allows for a less-stressful entry, exit and overall environment.

The one drawback? You can't take it on a plane -- yet. The company will be releasing a Sleepypod Air carrier, made specifically for in-cabin air travel, in December. I can't wait to find an excuse to try it out!