Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)Actually purchased the Extra Large Sturdibag from a local store for our 13", 13lb. Miniature Schnauzer, but just had to leave a review here after two 2-3 hour flights because it's such an excellent product. The extra large is 16" tall by 20" long, just right for our MS--she can stand up fully and turn around (an airline requirement btw) normally, yet the flexible rods over the top allow the carrier to "smush down" and fit under an airplane seat when the time comes.
ON THE PLANE:
The BEST part of this "smushability" is that the flexible rods are still trying to retain their arched shape, so even under the seat, they are pushing the top of the bag UP, resulting in your pet having as much room as possible. (Our MS can lay down in the carrier when it's under the seat, with a few inches clearance above her head/back). In other words, the bag doesn't just collapse in on your pet when pressure is applied.
The 20" long extra large version fits under the seat but extends into your foot space by a few inches. We were never called out on this by a flight attendant (flying Alaska Airlines & Horizon Air) but something to think about if your airline is more strict. It would not extend into the foot space if turned sideways (taking up two seats' underfoot space).
CONSTRUCTION:
Overall, the carrier is extremely well built. Quality materials for both the sides and vented openings, velcro closures, and zippers. Straps are very comfortable for carrying, both by hand and over the shoulder. The padding inside the carrier is extremely plush (fleece over an egg-crate pad), attaches to the bottom via 2 velcro strips (front and back), and has stood up well to 2 washings so far.
The carrier is incredibly light for how much structure it has. A foam core board in it's own zippered compartment on the bottom of the bag makes it as comfortable as possible for your pet to be lugged around or set down (and may be removed if you want to completely collapse the bag for storage). The rest of the bag gets it's shape from 5 removable, flexible rods--2 on the top down the length of the bag, and 3 arcs from one side to the other at the front, middle, and back of the bag.
FEATURES: Rounding out the package are the bells and whistles. Four vents, consisting of a fabric flap attached by velcro to plastic mesh, 3 of which unzip fully: the main front door; 2 square vents on the top, each of which has a half circle zipper creating an opening for your pet to put their head out (or your hand in); and a half circle vent on the top of the back panel which doesn't unzip. The bottom half of the back panel is a zippered pocket, just the perfect size for treats, toys, poop bags, leash, food, and collapsible water bowls. And, finally, inside there is a plastic d-ring to attach a short leash to your pet (in case of escape artists), while outside are 4 nylon loops--one at each corner--to stake down the carrier (in case of high winds under the airplane seat?? who knows.)
CONS:
None. I guess the only thing missing are wheels for rolling the bag around, but that would add significantly to the weight of the bag and, more importantly, wouldn't be comfortable for the pet inside based on the current shape (and assuming a carry-on bag type construction). Therefore I don't consider this to be a weakness.SUMMARY:
All-in-all, this is an extremely well-built carrier with all the features you need (plus some), and the only one I've found large enough for my Miniature schnauzer that still conforms to airline standards.HELPFUL TIP:
Even if your pet has no qualms about going into the carrier initially, I highly recommend making VERY positive associations with the bag before your trip, by giving very tasty treats for getting into and staying in the carrier for short periods with the door open and closed. Flying can be stressful and making this carrier a "home away from home" will give your pet a little extra security. If we put this carrier on the floor with the door open, our Muppet will get in on her own and turn and look at us, looking for her tasty treat. :) When we travel, she'll hop right in if the situation is new or she's unsure, so we know she considers that space her little "safety cave." Happy travels!
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