The Ultimate Sherpa pet dog cat carrier Bag Medium Red with Black Trim Airline Approved Pet Carrier Reviews

Our daughter gave my wife and me, long-term empty nesters, an animal shelter, terrier type little guy who was promptly named Rooney for his shaggy eyebrows. This gave us the problem of taking him back and forth from SC to our summer home in Maine; the Sherpa carrier was the perfect solution. Rooney had to be confined to the Sherpa for almost all of a fourteen hour, weather delayed, two-leg flight. We introduced him to the carrier ten days prior to the flight and he became accustomed to it, particularly being able to stick his head out the top or to look through the ample screen windows, all with roll-down flaps. It fitted very nicely under the seats ahead. The construction was excellent, the weight not excessive, and the waterproof, washable bottom with one inch lip all around was fitted with a nice little mattress on top of a removable, stiff insert that kept the carrier from sagging when being carried. The hand grip handles and shoulder strap were convenient and the d-ring inside handy for retaining the pet while the top or front was fully opened. A long pouch for treats, toys and airline tickets was on one side. You and your pet won't be sorry you bought this Sherpa carrier.

I just received the medium carrier. This is a very well-made carrier with quality materials and excellent details--it looks great! Dual access from the top and side offers convenient options. The straps are a heavy duty, woven material (shoulder straps detachable) and look like they won't rip or detach from the bag with repeated use. The fabric is very heavy and seems like it will be stain resistant (but probably not stain proof). The flaps roll up nicely to let the pet look through the mesh, which appears to be heavy duty and not easily ripped. The flaps fold down to make a snug "nest" for the pet and to give it privacy from the curious.

I purchased this bag primarily to bring a dachshund puppy home (3 hour flight), and at 8 weeks old, the puppy will barely weigh 3 pounds and will have plenty of room. However, I also have a full grown dachshund who is 12 pounds. This bag claims to fit dogs up to 16 pounds and while my adult dog "fits", it is a little bit tight length-wise for him (and he is not a long dachshund). The interior space is a little smaller than it appears due to the padding on the floor, pockets and such. The puppy is expected to be 8-9 pounds full grown, which I think is the right size for this medium carrier. If I needed to transport the 12 pound dachshund, I would prefer a larger carrier for the dog's comfort.

Overall, I really like it and I believe the puppy will be quite comfy inside, plus I can use it in the car to keep her contained (strap faciliates fastening to seatbelt). I am rating 4 stars out of 5 for two reasons - it is pricey in my opinion (yes, great quality and details but truly think the value is more in $60 range) and also because a 16 pound dog would not be confortable in this carrier. I would think up to 10 pounds would be best.

I read many reviews to help in selecting the right travel carrier. So in return here's my feedback, hope it helps. I purchased the Ultimate Sherpa soft carrier for a first time airline flight for an 11 year old Chihuahua weighing 7lbs 8 ozs. The carrier provided plenty of room, ventilation, and storage for treats, food, toys, blanket, etc. Initial concerns prior to purchase were the size, airline restrictions, style and durability. The product met these requirements and more.