Are you struggling to fold your dog crate and put it away? You’re not alone! Many pet owners find folding a dog crate to be an arduous task, especially if they have never done it before.
Luckily, there are some easy tricks and techniques that anyone can learn. With a little practice, you will be able to fold your dog crate safely and quickly. Not only will this save you time and energy, but it will also help keep your home clutter-free.
“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” -Orhan Pamuk
In this post, we’ll take you through the steps of how to fold a dog crate quickly and easily. Whether your crate is made of plastic or metal, our guide includes tips for both types. So, no matter what kind of crate you own, you’ll be able to fold it like a pro after reading this article.
We understand that learning something new can sometimes feel intimidating, but trust us when we say that folding a dog crate is easier than you might think. If you want to master this skill and impress your friends, family, and furry companion, keep on reading!
“The better I get to know men, the more I find myself loving dogs.” -Charles de Gaulle
Why is Folding a Dog Crate Important?
For dog owners, purchasing a suitable crate for their furry friend is essential. But when it comes to transporting or storing the crate, many people struggle to figure out how to do it efficiently without damaging the crate. This is where learning how to fold a dog crate becomes crucial. Here are some reasons why folding a dog crate is important:Efficient Storage
One of the primary benefits of knowing how to properly fold a dog crate is efficient storage. When not in use, a crate can take up a lot of space, especially if you have a smaller living area. By knowing how to fold your dog’s crate, you can easily store it away in a closet or under a bed. You won’t have to worry about it taking up valuable floor space.Folding your dog’s crate also allows for easy access to clean and disinfect it regularly.
Easy Transportation
Another benefit of folding your dog’s crate is that it makes transportation much more manageable. For example, if you’re traveling with your pet, having a compactly folded crate will save you precious space in your car. Additionally, airports require that crates be collapsible, so being able to fold your dog’s crate helps when flying with your pet.“Frequently traveled pets should feel comfortable and at home inside their portable homes. A good rule of thumb is choosing a model that they can enter, exit, sit, stand, and turn around comfortably,” says Dr. Mary Burch, director of AKC Family Dog Program.
Prolongs the Life of the Crate
Learning how to properly fold your dog’s crate can help prolong its lifespan. Tossing the crate haphazardly into a corner or shoving it into a closet can cause unnecessary damage. Folding the crate correctly ensures that it takes up less space and is protected from damage. Over time, this protective measure will help keep your dog’s crate in good condition.“Keep your dog’s crate in a temperature-controlled environment to prevent rust and moisture buildup,” suggests Dr. Erika Loftin, veterinarian at DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital.
In conclusion, learning how to fold your dog’s crate saves space, makes transportation easier, and helps prolong its life. Following these simple steps can make a significant difference in ensuring that your pet’s crate stays in excellent condition while also making your life simpler. By keeping your furry friend happy and cozy in their home away from home, you’ll be able to enjoy peace of mind knowing that they’re comfortable even when traveling or resting at home.What are the Different Types of Dog Crates?
Wire Dog Crates
Wire dog crates are one of the most popular types of dog crates for both travel and home. They consist of steel wire mesh panels and a plastic tray on the base, making them easy to clean. The crates come with a divider panel that allows you to adjust the size as your puppy grows.
When it comes to folding wire dog crates, it’s essential to handle them carefully. Place your crate upside down so you can reach the folds easily. Fold one end inward until it passes over the center of the crate’s bottom part. Repeat this step on the opposite side, where they should have met. Finally, push towards the middle to collapse the crate together.
“A desperate dog will climb over a wall.” -Chinese proverb
Plastic Dog Crates
Plastic dog crates are ideal for pet parents who plan to fly with their furry friends. Hard-sided options made of dense plastic provide better protection, while soft-sided models have a fabric shell and ventilation holes. These types of crates typically feature secure locks on each corner and stash compartments on the sides.
To fold a plastic dog crate for storage, remove anything inside, then release all clips or buckle fasteners. Flatten out any broader sections along the walls before starting with the top half. Press the front and back parts in, then lower the frame onto the bottom section to close it up further. Make sure the doors align appropriately, clip everything together, and store it away.
“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” -Orhan Pamuk
Soft-Sided Dog Crates
Newer designs and aesthetic factors have made soft-sided dog crates a popular option for pet owners. These types of crates fold down easily and offer lightweight portability, with pockets sewn onto the sides to store leashes or other travel essentials. They’re ideal for keeping your furry companions close during road trips while providing them with a sense of comfort.
To fold a soft-sided dog crate, you can start by removing any items inside it. Push in along the frame’s base downwards to gather an accordion shape in the cloth. Reduce the top portion where possible to help compress the whole structure further. Finally, clasp or zip everything together to make the storage experience more comfortable.
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” -Josh Billings
What are the Tools Required to Fold a Dog Crate?
Folding a dog crate might seem like an easy task, but it requires the right tools to make the process smooth. Here are some of the essential tools required:
Pliers
The pliers come in handy when trying to detach parts that may be stuck or jammed together. If you encounter any challenges detaching certain parts of the dog crate during disassembly, it is important to use the pliers instead of trying to force the pieces apart using your bare hands. This helps prevent damaging the crucial components as well as protects fingers from getting hurt.
Screwdriver
A screwdriver is necessary for removing screws and bolts that hold the crate in position. It’s advisable to get a screwdriver set with different sizes as some crates have larger screws compared to others. Using the right size of screwdriver helps avoid stripping screws that causes damage to threads, making it difficult to install again.
Rubber Mallet
A rubber mallet is a must-have tool when disassembling a dog crate because it helps tap out any wedged points and dismantle various stubborn bits without causing any harm. The hammer end of the rubber mallet can be used to gently knock any blocks loose while eliminating any risk of damages to them. Also, unlike regular hammers, rubber mallets leave no marks on the surface area being struck.
Protective Gloves
When folding a dog crate, protective gloves should be worn to safeguard the hands against cuts, bruises, and other forms of injuries that might occur during the disassembly of the crate. Many times, after putting up a lot of resistance, parts eventually release suddenly and at high speed. Protective gloves help cushion the impact in such instances.
“It’s important to have the right tools for any job, as tasks can become difficult and even dangerous without them” -Unknown
With these four crucial tools, folding a dog crate becomes straightforward. Remember that following instructions when detaching parts is essential if you plan to use the crate again. Keep track of all bolts and screws by putting them in one place, so you don’t misplace or discard them during the disassembly process.
How to Fold a Wire Dog Crate?
Remove the Tray
The first step to fold a wire dog crate is to remove the tray. The tray can be easily removed by lifting it from the bottom of the crate. Some trays are held in place with clips, so make sure to unclip them before pulling out the tray.
Collapse the Sides
Once you have removed the tray from the wire dog crate, the next step is to collapse the sides. Start by taking hold of one of the short sides and push it down towards the base of the crate. You will notice that one side has hinges which will allow it to bend downwards. Do the same thing on the other short side until they both come together at the base of the crate.
Now, repeat the process for the taller sides. Push one of the long sides inwards towards the center of the crate, then do the same thing on the opposite side. It should now resemble an elongated rectangle shape.
To finish folding your wire dog crate, hold onto the top of it and gently pull upwards to bring all four corners together. Once everything is tightly compacted, use any latches or straps that may have come with your crate to keep everything secure.
“Folding your dog’s crate takes only a few steps but ensure that you carefully follow the instructions” -Crate Training Store
Folding a wire dog crate doesn’t require much effort on your part as most models built today come equipped with easy-to-use mechanisms allowing you to quickly pack up and carry out of sight when space is needed.
If however, damage occurs to your crate, this video guide provided by Animal Hub on Youtube offers insightful views in disassembling the wire enclosure to get it back in shape.
Folding and unfolding your dog’s kennel should be a quick, easy process that requires only minimal effort from you. Always consult your manufacturer recommended guide to provide best possible results.
How to Fold a Soft-Sided Dog Crate?
Remove any Accessories
The first step in folding a soft-sided dog crate is to remove any accessories that may be inside the crate. This includes toys, blankets, or food bowls. Make sure to take everything out of the crate before you begin collapsing it.
Collapse the Sides and Roof
When it comes to collapsing a soft-sided dog crate, start by unzipping the front door and pulling down on the sides next to the door. This will cause the side walls of the crate to start collapsing inward toward each other.
Next, reach up to grab onto the top of the crate’s roof and pull down towards the ground. As you do this, make sure to keep pressing the sides inward with your free hand until the roof has collapsed down to meet the base of the crate.
Secure with Straps or Zippers
Once the crate is completely collapsed, it’s time to secure it so it doesn’t come undone while being transported. Depending on the manufacturer, your crate may have straps or zippers designed for this purpose.
If your crate has straps, simply wrap them around the folded crate and buckle them securely in place. If your crate uses zippers instead, zip them up to keep the crate from unfolding during transport.
Store in Carrying Case
Once the crate is secured, slide it into its carrying case to help protect it against any bumps along the way. Be sure to confirm that the carrying bag is large enough to hold the folded-up crate properly without putting too much force on the material.
It is crucial that the carrying case is stored correctly as well while traveling – it needs to be kept in a secure space where it won’t get crushed by other luggage, and protected from extreme temperatures or moisture.
“To the world you may be just one person; but to one person you may be the whole world.” –Dr. Seuss
Folding up your soft-sided dog crate correctly can make traveling with your furry friend much more manageable. Keeping its carrying case safe along the way ensures that your pet’s home-away-from-home will be ready for any adventure they are looking forward to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to fold a dog crate?
First, remove any bedding or accessories from the crate. Then, release any locking mechanisms. Collapse the sides of the crate inwards, towards the center. Fold down the top and bottom of the crate to create a compact rectangle shape. Secure the folded crate with any included clips or straps. Store in a safe and dry location until ready to use again.
Are there any tips for folding a dog crate quickly and efficiently?
Practice makes perfect! Familiarize yourself with the locking mechanisms and folding steps before attempting to fold the crate quickly. Removing any bedding or accessories beforehand can also save time. If the crate has built-in handles, use them to help manipulate the crate into the folded shape. Lastly, make sure the crate is secure and stable before storing.
How do you store a folded dog crate?
Store the folded dog crate in a safe and dry location, such as a closet or garage. If the crate has any accessories or parts (such as a divider panel), store them with the folded crate to avoid misplacing them. Ensure the crate is not stacked underneath any heavy items and is not in danger of being crushed or damaged.
Can you fold a dog crate with a dog inside?
No, it is never safe to fold a dog crate with a dog inside. Always remove the dog and any bedding or accessories before attempting to fold the crate. Folding a crate with a dog inside can cause serious injury or harm to the dog and damage to the crate.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when folding a dog crate?
A common mistake is forgetting to release any locking mechanisms before attempting to fold the crate. Another mistake is not collapsing the sides of the crate towards the center before folding down the top and bottom. Lastly, not securing the folded crate with clips or straps can cause it to unfold or become unstable during storage.
What should you do if you can’t figure out how to fold your dog crate?
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or look up instructional videos online. If you are still having trouble, contact the manufacturer’s customer service for assistance. Trying to force the crate into a folded position can cause damage and make folding even more difficult in the future.