Petmate Vari Kennel

Airline Usage: The USDA and IATA regulate transportation of animals such as dogs and cats. To prepare your kennel for airline usage, it must be marked clearly on the top and at least one side with the words "LIVE ANIMALS" in letters not less than one inch high. Arrows should indicate the upright position of the kennel. Clean bedding (such as straw or shredded paper) should be used in the kennel. Water should be available at least every 12 hours after transportation is initiated. Display feeding/water instructions even if your pet is to receive no food or water. Mark the kennel with your pet's name and a telephone number to contact at final destination. In addition to these instructions, IATA requires that both top and bottom hulls have rear ventiliation for all international travel. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your airline. Kennel Training: Dogs which have not been trained and properly oriented may initially resist confinement, particularly for long periods. Training should begin when your dog is a puppy. Once the dog accepts the kennel as its "den," you will have few problems getting the dog to enter the kennel or stay in it for several hours. There are numerous training aids available--tapes, books, articles--which can provide guidance in this area, but since it is important to begin a training routine immediately, the following basic tips will give you a start: Never push or shove a pet into the kennel or use it as a means of punishment. Coax it in with toys or treats and reward it with praise. Do not leave a puppy unattended in the kennel for more than two to three hours during the day. Young animals will need to relieve themselves often and do not like to soil their sleeping area or den. They will whine or bark so you can quickly take them outside. In this way the dog learns to tell you when it needs to go outside and that you approve. Place the kennel in your bedroom at night until the pet feels secure. Use old towels or blankets for bedding. Placing something in the kennel with your scent will help the pet feel more comfortable. When possible leave the kennel door open during the daytime in a restricted area so the dog can go in and out at will.