What’s easier than plopping your little one into your tote bag and walking out the door? Well, my good friend, Amanda, who has a 5-pound morkiepoo, used to take Rosie everywhere in her handbag. For ten years she carried Rosie around in that tote. If you had asked Rosie what she thought, she’d probably complain. Totes - or any handbag, for that matter - are not meant for your pup. What you should be using instead, is a carrier for your small dog. They both serve the same purpose – transporting your puppy – but they have key differences in design, functionality and comfort.
Carriers, specially premium dog carriers are designed for the comfort and safety of your pet. Carriers are sized to accommodate your small dog. The sides are firmer, offering better support and protection. They have mesh panels for ventilation. They have safety straps and padded interiors. Most have one lower side for the puppy’s head to rest comfortably.
Small dog carriers are designed to carry your pup for longer periods of time. They can be zipped closed to protect your puppy in bad weather and for inflight travel or car trips, so they don’t escape. And for the one carrying the puppy, a carrier has multiple carrying options like adjustable handles, shoulder straps or even some have backpack designs. True, you might say, so do ordinary handbags or totes, but the carrier straps are made to hold more than your lipstick and smartphone. And then there is the issue of being airline-approved; totes generally aren’t. Good small dog carriers will be airline-approved and can fit comfortably under the seat. They can be closed and with the puppy inside you have the assurance that your puppy will be comfortable and have good ventilation. So, if you plan to take your small dog on flights, long car rides or just to go shopping, a structured dog carrier is your best option.
Before you buy your puppy a carrier, check to be sure your puppy will fit comfortably with room to move around. Be sure that there are ventilation mesh panels on both ends. You want the carrier to have safety features like leash clips and a strong zipper, preferably a YKK zipper. And of course, the carrier should have a soft lining. A plus would be to have extra pockets to store all your puppy’s necessities for travel.
Back to Amanda - after all those years of poor Rosie’s misery in her mommy’s tote, I finally convinced her to get a proper carrier. To Amanda’s surprise both she and Rosie loved the carrier. She loved the shoulder strap and Rosie’s comfort. Now they don’t go anywhere without Rosie being in her very own carrier.
Carriers can range in price, but like all other products, you get what you pay for. The fabrics may not be as durable, or comfortable for you or your pet. The safety features may not be as secure, they may be lacking in features like adjustable straps or mesh panels or plush linings. I suggest investing in something solid and of course fashionable. There’s nothing like carrying your designer puppy around in a great looking, premium dog carrier. The Grand Voyageur and the Porsha Carriers are both airline-approved and happen to be stunning. The designs are Italian inspired and handcrafted using premiere fabrics and hardware. What could be more luxurious for your little one than an ultra mink faux fur lining?
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