Birdwalk Farm Owner
Help - Crate Types
The advent of using crates within
the home and family environment, rather than just for breeders and dog
professionals has been a great improvement to dog care and overall well
being. However, using the right type of crate for the right need is
very important.
There are basically two types of
crates – plastic or metal. Plastic crates are those used for
shipping and transport, as the dog can not stick or paw or tail out of
the crate and become injured. These crates are especially designed to
keep dogs (or cats) safe during both car and public transportation.
They are meant to be crush-resistant, hold food and water, and be a
protective home for your pet during travel. While there are enough
small openings to allow ample fresh air, and a limited view of
surroundings, they are first and foremost meant to keep your pet safe.
While a plastic crate could be used for house training and home
use, we prefer metal wire crates for ever-day use, for the
following reasons.
1) The wire crate affords a clear view in all directions, so your puppy
will feel to be more a part of and involved in things going on around
it - life in your home. Puppies that have a crate that allow them to
feel safe as well as being with you will learn to enjoy the crate as
their special, safe, cozy place - it fulfills their natural need to
den, both as a puppy and as adult. An adult dog that is at ease in a
crate is well ahead in life. When times require crating, the dog will
accept it without anxiety and indeed most likely will be calmer in a
crate in times of stress.
2) Wire crates have a removable pan in the bottom to pull out for ease
of cleaning – plastic does not.
3) Metal does not absorb odors – plastic can.
4) Wire crates can be covered for draft protection and dogs can’t
overheat in them when not covered – plastic does not offer this
option. Some folks prefer plastic for providing a more ‘den’ like
environment but the same thing is achieved by tossing a blanket over a
wire crate.
5) Wire crates come in styles – we highly recommend a "suitcase" or
folding style. These crates fold flat, to a few inches thick for easy
transport and storage. Whether going from one room to another in the
house, or taking it along in the car on vacation, the folding crate has
many advantages over a crate than can not be instantly readied for
transport. More options in crates are coming on the market all
the time as people realize the benefits of using crates and having them
- and their safety - available for their animals. Wicker crates
(not good for aggressive chewers), color coordinating crates, plastic
folding crates similar in style to wire ones, canvas collapsible
crates, special covers for wire crates –more and more "fashion" options
are coming on the market all the time, making using a crate both fun
for you and your pet as well as coordinating with your home interior.
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Last updated 2/06 Copyright 2000, Birdwalk Farms