Vans are primarily designed to carry goods securely and don't necessarily provide the best environment for transporting animals. Most are a metal box, separated from the drivers cab by a metal or plywood bulkhead, making the load area dark & damp, cold in winter and very hot in summer.
My van is very different. Following advice from vets and the RSPCA, it has been designed and modified to provide the maximum comfort and safety when transporting your pets.
Make & Model - The van is a very reliable Renault Trafic (European Van of the Year winner), with one of the lowest load heights in its class, making it easier for the dogs to get in and out. I also carry a ramp for those that need it.
Colour - You may recall that the utility companies in the 80's used yellow vans as they stood out well in all weather conditions and were less likely to be hit.
Heating & Ventilation - There is no bulkhead so your pets share the same environmental comforts as me i.e. heat and air conditioning. In addition there are two fresh air vents on the roof plus a powered fan.
Cages - These were tailor made by a specialist company who have provided dog cages for the police, MOD & RSPCA for 40+ years. They are heavy duty and fit the van exactly to give the dogs maximum space and height. The two front cages run from side to side and can be accessed from either of the two sliding side doors. The other two cages face the rear with emergency hatches into the front. Therefore each cage has at least two exits in the event of a collision blocking their usual egress. Windows - My first van only had a rear window, so the front cages were still quite dark. I have now included side windows, so there is plenty of natural light and each cage occupant has a window to look out of. To overcome the problem of heat build up, each window is treated with solar reflective film and the windscreen also reflects back 50% of the suns rays. Licence & Insurance - I have a full, clean driving licence, which I have held for 29 years and have also passed the Advanced Driving Test, accredited by the Institute of Advanced Motorists. The van has full comprehensive insurance, including "carriage of goods for hire or reward," which is the correct cover when transporting other peoples property, but often ignored because it adds 350% to the premium. |