Dog Cages and Crates
By Lucille Crabtree
 

Dog cages and crates are very important in a dogs life, no matter what the age is. Canine cages or crates not only relieves a dogs stress and is important for their safety, and comfort. It gives them privacy and quiet time when needed.

Many owners feel that cages or fences are cruel and are like a dog jail to the animal. This is not true. Dogs are basically den animals and prefer a space or place of their own. That is why dogs enjoy a dog house for the seclusion and quiet. It can have a calming effect.
 
It is easy to train dogs to go to their dog cage or dog house to stay or sleep instead of your sofa, rugs or your bed.
 
These are the basic cages and crates used both inside and outside of your house and have proven a practical solution for both you and your dog. These also make excellent gifts.
 
Dog cages and crates are used in many ways.
 
  • As a training area. Dogs and puppies usually will not urinate  or wet in their sleeping area
  • Works well in house training for bladder control.
  • To stay off furniture.
  • As a place of refuge while you are gone.
  • As a safe or protective area
  • Traveling in a vehicle or plane.
  • Area of needed confinement.
  • To control wrong conduct.
 
What are the practical differences?
 
Wire cages.
 
For in home, travel, or outside.
 

Square back (non-foldable)………………

Fold and carry (foldable-easily transportable)………………………
 
Dividers can be obtained to divide cages into smaller areas. Dividers allow growth for your puppy. Also
removable floor trays, vinyl-coated floor gratescan be added. Pad or bed can be laid within wire cage.
Sizes range from very small dog to very large and activedogs. ……………………
 
Floor Grill for Galvannealed/Modular Cages  
 
General Cage Show Cage Dolly 42L x 24W
 
Always ask for rust resistance wire . For extremely active look for a cage with smaller gauge wire. The smaller the gauge the stronger the wire. Wire spacing is important also. Wire cages come with one, two, or three doors.………………..
 
Fiberglass    bodied cages look similar to plastic crates
 
Plastic crates. (Law requires for air travel of pet). Vents in sides and back for ventilation.
Many different styles for many different needs.Easy to handle and carry……………………..
 
PetMate Vari-Kennel Traditional Pet Crate Sml

PetMate Vari-Kennel Traditional Pet Crate Sml

The Pet Mate Vari-Kennel Traditional Pet Crate is the classic design that has been trusted for years! This lightweight, portable kennel is perfect for home, show or travel, and is made of durable polypropylene with chrome plated steel doors. Fast, easy, tool free assembly! Airline approved with purchase of "Live Animal" sticker and water cup. Size Small: 21"L x 16W x 15"H.
 
Soft crates: Canine Camper Crate Excellent for traveling in car and in home.
Well ventilated. Good view for your pet. …………………..
   
Canine Camper Crate

Canine Camper Crate

This portable soft-sided crate sets up in justseconds. This solid fabric prevents chilling drafts and comes complete with a double -sided sheepskin mat. The door and vents are both mesh for maximum ventilation and each comes with it's own privacy flap.

    •  
    Tent style cages: These are made to take anywhere.Ideal for camping, in the yard or inside your house.
    Made of nylon or canvas………………….
     
    Insulated crates or dog houses: No vents in sides or backs. For both inside and outside of house. Helps
    to control both heat and cold…………………….
     
    Metro Air Force Cage/Crate Cooling Fan

    Metro Air Force Cage/Crate Cooling Fan

    This deluxe, portable, high quality, high performance fan protects pets from uncomfortable, dangerous hot weather and keeps them cool and relaxed. Designed to be ultra quiet, it will never frighten pets. The fan easily clips onto any standard cage, crate or pet carrier. Ideal for shows and travel. Powerful airflow.

    •  
    How to choose for your size of dog
    Select a cage by first measuring your dog. There does not need to be alot of room for your pet to be comfortable.
     
    Measurements
    From floor to top of shoulders + 3". This is the minimum
    Height for cage
     
    From the tip of his head to base of tail + 3" for minimum
    Length of cage.
     
    Your dog needs to be comfortable to stand, sit, turn aroundand lie down, so adjust measurement accordingly. If not sure of cage size for a larger dog, go for the larger size. For us humans, it may not seem large enough, but for your pet it will be quite adequate for comfort. Remember he is basically a den animal.
     
    If you train your animal with a cage or crate, it is much easier when using a cage or other confinement when traveling. It will be much easier to get your pets co-operation when needed to be taken to a vet or another place. They will willingly get in without a tussle.
     
    At home after the animal is use to the confinement, the door can be left open for him/her to come and go at will. Make sure that food and water are provided if you need to leave your pet confined for a longer period of time. …………………………..
     
    Where to buy your dog cages and crates:
    Dog.com - Discount Pet Supplies

    Lucille Crabtree, from childhood has drawn animals especially dogs and cats. For the last 20 years she has developed over 100 Intarsia patterns of many different animals, birds, and fish to be made into 3 dimensional art called Intarsia. These patterns are being sold internationally.