Level 2Exhibitor
Transporting your dog properly
The answer
Preparing for a show starts well before the ring: from the moment your dog gets into the car. The aim is simple: to arrive with a companion that is safe, comfortable and ready to explore the venue.
A good journey is prepared like the rest of the day, with suitable equipment and time for breaks.
In France, what do the rules say?
MyDogShow tip: settle your dog so that you can drive without hindrance and keep a clear field of vision. A dog moving between the seats or climbing onto your lap can compromise your driving.
MyDogShow tip: there is no single required model of crate or harness. The equipment described below is practical safety recommendations.
Beginner: secure and reassure
1. Settle it in a suitable space
Use a travel crate that is properly secured or a harness designed for cars, fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions. A crate should allow the dog to stand up, turn round and lie down naturally.
The right habit: check the fastening before every departure. A crate that is simply placed down can shift when you brake.
2. Get it used to the car before the big journey
Discovering the car, the crate and several hours on the road all on the same day is a lot. Start with settling it in the stationary vehicle, then short journeys it enjoys.
The right habit: also take it on pleasant outings by car, rather than always ending up at the vet's or at a show.
3. Prepare a small travel kit
Keep water, a bowl, a lead, poo bags and a towel within reach. A familiar mat can improve comfort, as long as it doesn't interfere with the restraint equipment.
The right habit: make these items accessible without having to unload all the grooming kit.
Intermediate: make the journey comfortable
1. Plan proper breaks
On a long journey, stop regularly to offer water, a walk on the lead and a moment to relax. Adjust how often to your dog's age, health and behaviour.
The right habit: choose a quiet, secure spot. Clip on the lead before letting it out, to prevent it running off.
2. Manage the temperature
Keep good ventilation in the cabin and around the crate. Check that luggage isn't blocking the air.
Never leave your dog alone in a car in mild to hot weather, even for a quick trip to the secretary's desk. Shade and a window left slightly open aren't enough to guarantee its safety.
The right habit: arrange your arrival so you can take it with you or leave it with someone present.
3. Take travel sickness seriously
If your dog drools a lot, seems nauseous or vomits during journeys, ask your vet for advice. Avoid improvising a treatment or giving a human medicine.
The right habit: also discuss meal timing, especially for a puppy or a dog with particular medical needs.
Advanced: plan for demanding journeys
1. Check the real protection of the equipment
A dividing grille limits access to the cabin but doesn't necessarily restrain the dog in a crash. To choose your set-up, look at the test data available, compatibility with the vehicle and the fitting instructions.
The right habit: tell apart an accessory meant to stop movement from a device tested to protect in a collision.
2. Organise loading and arrival
Secure the luggage and keep access to the dog clear. Allow a margin for a calm walk before the formalities and the grooming.
The right habit: don't turn a delay into a rushed journey. The dog's comfort also depends on smooth driving.
3. Check the formalities before crossing a border
For a show abroad, check the requirements of the destination country, of the countries you pass through and of the return to France. Identification, health documents, rabies vaccination and any treatments depend on the trip.
By train, plane or ferry, also check the carrier's exact conditions: booking, container, access to the dog and restrictions.
The right habit: do these checks before booking, then check them again before you leave.
On arrival, give it time to land
Before asking for a nice presentation, offer water, a walk and a few moments to take in the surroundings. If the journey has made it ill or very worried, reassess whether it should take part.
The first success of the day is simply arriving in good condition.