There are many types of pet crates and among them, the more common ones
are solid plastic crates, aluminum crates, wire crates, soft crates and dog
tents.
A solid plastic crate is recommended if you are traveling by air with your pet.
This is because solid plastic crates are strong enough to keep your pet safely
enclosed during travel. The same goes if you are traveling with your pet by car.
Should you ever be in a car accident, your pet will have some level of
protection if he is in a solid plastic crate. Solid plastic crates have one
disadvantage, though; they are not foldable, and so they take up valuable space
when they are not being used.
Aluminum crates come in foldable or fixed styles. These pet crates are extremely
light but strong if they have the proper bracing. Aluminum crates are not going
to rust either. When your pet is inside an aluminum crate, he will have good
airflow and he can see what's happening outside. You'll commonly see aluminum
crates in veterinary hospitals. These crates are great if you often take your
pet with you on road trips. Aluminum crates are not only great for keeping your
pet contained while you travel; they are also great for use at home, as your
pet's permanent "den." If you breed dogs, aluminum crates make for a great
breeding kennel environment.
Similar to aluminum crates, wire crates can be folded and stored away when they
are not being used. In addition, they are also great for keeping pets contained
during travel although they may be heavier than other types of crates. Your dog
will have adequate airflow inside a wire crate and you can always see your dog
inside the crate. Veterinary hospitals and kennels are where you'll often see
wire crates. They are also used at dog shows as they give spectators a really
good view of the show dogs. Pads and covers are available to make wire crates a
comfortable and safe place for pets.
The soft crate is lightweight, can be folded and can be used for transporting
pets. Your dog will have a greater sense of security if you keep him contained
in a soft crate while you travel with him. At the same time, your dog can have
excellent airflow and visibility. Soft crates are not recommended for containing
dogs that have a tendency to chew or dig.
Dog tents are an alternative to soft crates. They are like soft crates, only
smaller when they are folded. Dog tents are lighter too, making them extremely
portable. Dog tents are great if you don't have much space in your car or
suitcase and you want to be able to take your pet with you. You can stuff a dog
tent in a bag and then once you are at your destination, open it up and keep
your dog contained. Dog tents should not be used to keep puppies in, nor should
they be used for dogs that have not been housebroken. They are also not
recommended for transporting pets. |
