Any animal being transported is entitled to fresh air and relief from extreme temperatures. There should be a minimum of 3/4-inch clearance between the transporting container and any surrounding containers, walls, or other possible obstacles to air flow. Animals should not be forced to endure more than four hours of consecutive temperatures above 85 degrees or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Animals should not be transported in such a way that they are forced to breathe vehicle exhausts or other chemical by-products of machines or industry, or will be affected by an accidental spill of these materials. Remember that an animal being transported is often trapped within a very small container and is reliant upon human caregivers to keep them safe and healthy.
Animals should be fed at least once every 24 hours. Young animals should be given adequate feeding at least once for every 12 hours of confinement. Fresh water should be provided to all animals at least once in a 12-hour period unless the average temperature is going to be above 85 degrees, in which case water should be provided at 6-hour intervals.
Reasonable steps should be taken to provide animals with any protection they may require against the weather during transportation. Animals should not be transported in such a way that they are exposed to excessive winds, such as those caused by the vehicle moving forward. Additionally, animals should not be transported in an open container that allows rain or snow to enter the container. Unless the animal is specifically adapted to living in the dark, the container should allow the passage of light through at least one side.
Many types of animals should be kept separate from other species. This includes rabbits and monkeys, and most species of birds. The reason for this is to prevent the transmission of disease between known carriers and other species which might be susceptible to the infection. In most cases, unless you know your animal can be legally transported, it is a good idea to check the laws of your destination to be sure that you are in compliance with any local ordinances regarding your animals.
