Getting a pet to the vet is not always easy, especially if you do not drive, are unwell yourself, or have a cat that objects loudly to every journey. Taxi Peninsula can take you and your pet to the vet, the groomer or a boarding kennel or cattery, across the Mornington Peninsula, Frankston and beyond. The key rule is simple: pets travel in a secure carrier, and in most cases the owner travels too.
Why is a carrier required?
A carrier keeps your pet safe and calm, and keeps the vehicle clean and comfortable for the passengers who travel after you, some of whom may have allergies. An animal loose in a moving car can be injured by a sudden stop, and a frightened pet may try to hide under a seat or jump out when the door opens. A sturdy carrier with a secure latch prevents all of that. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a carrier your pet can stand and turn around in, with good ventilation
- Line it with a towel or absorbent pad in case of accidents
- Bring a lead for dogs, so you can walk them in and out at each end
- Have your pet’s paperwork, medication and vet details with you
- Tell us the size of the carrier when you book so it fits comfortably
Larger dogs that do not fit in a standard carrier need to be discussed with us before booking. Let us know the breed and size, and we will tell you whether we can help with a suitable vehicle and arrangement.
Vet visits and other common trips
Most pet trips are to a local vet clinic for check-ups, vaccinations, surgery or follow-up appointments. Others are to groomers, to boarding kennels and catteries before a holiday, or to collect a new pet from a breeder or shelter. Older pet owners who no longer drive often find a taxi is the only practical way to keep up regular check-ups for an ageing cat or dog. Because we run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we can also take you to an after-hours emergency vet if your pet becomes unwell at night. Call us, explain the situation, and we will do what we can to get a vehicle to you.
For appointments where your pet is staying in, such as surgery or a procedure, book a one-way trip in, then book the trip home once the clinic tells you when your pet is ready to be collected.
Can my pet travel without me?
Usually the owner travels with the pet, which is the simplest and calmest option for everyone. In some situations, such as a vet discharge while you are at work, unattended travel may be possible by arrangement. This needs to be discussed with us before booking, and we will need clear contact details at both ends, confirmation that someone will hand the pet over and someone will receive it, and the pet secured in its carrier. We may not be able to accept every request.
Assistance animals
Assistance animals, such as guide dogs and other trained support dogs, are not pets and travel with their handler as normal. They do not need a carrier. If you travel with an assistance animal and use a wheelchair, our accessible vehicles have room for both, so mention it when you book.
Booking a pet trip
When you book, choose a sedan or, if you are a wheelchair user, our ramp van or Maxi WAT, and add a note that a pet is travelling, with the type of animal and carrier size. The booking form shows a fare estimate, and confirmation arrives by SMS or email. Booking ahead is recommended, particularly for early appointments. If your pet tends to get anxious or carsick, a light meal well before the trip and a familiar blanket in the carrier can help, and our drivers will keep the ride smooth and the cabin cool. Let us know if the animal is unwell or recovering from surgery so the driver can take extra care at each end.