Puppy travel (1st time)

[fishman5]

When meeting your new puppy for the first time, what would you suggest picking your puppy up by car (7 hour drive) or shipped by plane??? What is best for the puppy?

Thankyou

[bubbatd]

I only had to ship one pup ( from Indy to Denver ) . I had a pick up from Florida . Both did well . I would ask your breeder .... he/she knows the temperment best .

[lizzybeth727]

Would the puppy have to ride in cargo? If so then I'd definately say "drive", especially considering the weather (if it's hot where you are).

[fishman5]

I know that when getting a dog used to traveling in a car you are suppossed to slowy get him used to it and make it a good experience.

Do you think that if we pick him up by car that it will make it harder to get him comfortable riding in the car for the future?

I just hate the feeling of having him shipped on a plane when we can pick him up and travel back home with him.

Thanx

[bubbatd]

When we picked up our first Golden in Conn to travel in car to Quebec he was fine . No cage back then , My Dad drove and I had pup on my lap in back seat , or box or wherever he was comfortable . The pup that went to Florida started out in a cage on front seat , but the cage was tossed into the back and the pup lay ed next to her the whole trip . Yes, I know it's not safe , but there are times that bonding and comfort takes presidency . Don't flame me !!!

[Barb04]

I personally would drive and pick up the pup. Sometimes the plane ride can be tramatic.

[lizzybeth727]

Originally Posted by fishman5

I know that when getting a dog used to traveling in a car you are suppossed to slowy get him used to it and make it a good experience.

Just do whatever you can to make it a fun experience for her. Schedule a lot of stops (I'd say one every hour at least), keep her comfortable like bubbatd said, and give her lots of treats!

[a.baker]

I would drive. The puppy may cry a lot in the car or it may fall asleep. But I would use it as a first experience for it to get acquainted to the trust you will continually provide. Also it may get sick too so bring plenty of towels and water too (for drinking) and what ever else for clean ups. And yes lots of stops for bathroom and to give it a break are good.

[fishman5]

Thankyou for all of your responses and advice. We are going to drive and pick her up

[bubbatd]

Great !!!!