What is a K9?
A K9 refers to a dog trained by law enforcement to help its handler. The dog may be used for search, rescue, detection, or apprehension. Police departments primarily train K9s and are often sworn in like human officers.
Many different types of dogs are utilized for k9 work, and each is chosen based on its skills and attributes. For example, bloodhounds are famous for police work because they can follow a scent. They have a more significant portion of their brain devoted to scent than humans, making it easier to pick up on an individual’s scent.
Other breeds of dogs are also used in k9 work, such as herding dogs. Herding dogs use their instincts to herd animals and can also be used to find missing people or recover crime scene evidence. K9s can be deployed for both military and police work and can usually carry out tasks that human officers cannot, such as sniffing out hidden explosives or drugs at airports.
K9 officers spend most of their time in vehicles, and many suppliers offer a range of solutions for keeping the canine safe during transport. These include vehicle upfit options that allow for the back seat to be divided for prisoner/K9 transport or plush crates designed to fit in the trunk of a car.
How do I transport my dog?
Dogs are precious cargo and should be kept safe during transport, whether going to their new home, a foster or temporary foster home, or to the vet for vaccinations. Some tips for transporting your dog include having their crate adequately prepared, ensuring they have food and water for the trip, and keeping them on a routine as much as possible to help reduce stress during travel.
Taking breaks during long drives is also essential, as dogs must stretch their legs and empty their bladders. Try to plan for a rest stop every two or three driving hours. While this might set you back regarding your arrival time, it will allow your dog to relax and have a break.
When selecting a crate for your dog, look for one made from sturdy material such as aluminum or fiberglass-reinforced plastic with good insulation and air circulation. Ensure it is the appropriate size for your dog and has crash bags inside in case of a collision.
Lastly, ensure your dog is appropriately Idled with a collar and microchip or tattoo before heading off on the road. You should also have their medical records and your veterinarian and emergency vet hospital number. It will ensure that your pet can be returned to you if they are lost or injured during transportation.
How do I transport my dog safely?
The most critical factor in dog transportation safety is a properly fitted and ventilated crate or carrier large enough for your dog to stand, lie down, turn around, and move inside. Look for a model with crash bags that provides extra accident protection.
Another critical element is adjusting your pet’s routine to account for the stress of travel, which may require feeding them earlier than usual and bringing water or ice cubes to prevent dehydration. Also, bringing your dog’s favorite toys and blanket for comfort is a good idea. And if you’re considering using non-prescription anxiety aids, test them on your dog before a long trip to ensure they won’t harm or cause any side effects.
Regarding car travel, you’ll want to avoid leaving your dog unattended in the back seat or trunk, which can be dangerous for them and other passengers. It’s also never safe for dogs to stick their heads out the window, as this can lead to eye injuries caused by dirt, rocks, dust, and other debris that can fly into their face.
For air travel, your dog must be transported in a secure and well-ventilated kennel or carrier large enough for them to stand, lie down, turn around, and for their feet to be fully extended. Look for a model with crash bags to protect your dog in an accident and a door latch that can be locked so you can’t accidentally close it while driving.
What do I need to transport my dog?
There are a variety of ways to transport your dog. One option is to use a professional service that offers door-to-door ground shipping. These companies have specialized knowledge of airline policies, pet travel crates, and boarding accommodations to ensure the safest and most stress-free trip possible for your dog. Other options include:
- Hiring a friend or family member to transport your pet.
- Asking a local dog sitter for help.
- Using an app like GoShare.
Regarding car trips, the most important thing is to prepare your dog for travel. It means getting them used to their crate and ensuring it’s comfortable with bedding, toys, and treats. It’s also a good idea to practice short car rides before your big journey to get them acclimated to the vehicle’s motion. During these training trips, be sure to speak in a happy, reassuring voice and give lots of pets and praise when they’re done!
It’s also a good idea to leave extra water in your dog’s crate so they can drink during stops. You should also avoid letting them stick their head out the window as this can cause them to become overexcited and distract the driver, increasing the risk of injury in an accident. You should also turn off your power windows to prevent them from being able to open them on their own.
