DogGeekz Announces 365 Day Return Policy and 100% Satisfaction on all Dog Supplies

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) November 01, 2011

DogGeekz, an online source for high quality dog supplies, announces their 365 Day Return Policy and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on all dog products – just in time for the holidays.

Dogs can now combat the upcoming Holiday chill with a warm dog bed to ensure a restful nights sleep. Dog Beds are an essential part of life for all dogs regardless of size, breed, and age. A good quality dog bed provides insulation from cold floors during the Fall and Winter seasons and cushion for joints and bones.

Too keep dogs from getting bored indoors, a dog toy will keep them occupied and mentally stimulated. Dog toys come in handy during the colder months, when dogs usually spend more time indoors. Providing a chew toy, interactive dog toy, or plush dog toy will help keep the pooch out of trouble and help keep them on Santa's good list.

Samuel Nieves, founder of DogGeekz.com says, "With the 365 Day Return Policy and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee in place, dog owners can now shop stress free. Many times, dog owners buy their beloved pets gifts for their birthday or simply out of love. On occasion, these dog items don't get used – instead, they sit, brand new, in a box, for months! That's where we come in. Returning them for exchange, credit, or refund is a breeze! Simply ship the items back in their original, brand new condition with a copy of your invoice for a full refund on the merchandise amount, no questions asked!"

DogGeekz is also announcing future additions to the already powerfully driven eCommerce site – which is to include a large dog article and dog breed information database along with a dog forum where dog owners can share and read dog information. Expect a great transformation early 2012.

About DogGeekz

DogGeekz offers a collection of many of the finest environmentally friendly dog products along with high quality dog supplies. We have a very strong vision at DogGeekz, and that is to live with a deep respect for mother nature and the animals within. We pride ourselves on great customer service and we're showing that by announcing our 365 Day Return Policy and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee to the world. From dog beds and dog toys, to dog gates and dog crates, you'll be able to find something truly unique to match your dog's personality. http://www.doggeekz.com

Choosing Dog Kennels and Dog Crates

A kennel or crate is basically referred to as any place in which a dog is kept. For decades, dog owners from all backgrounds have used dog kennels and crates to breed, maintain, and train their dogs. They are actually very efficient tools in doing such things. Every dog owner needs to own a dog crate and kennel. If they do not, then they will soon find out that it is the best thing for the owner and the dog.

Choosing a dog kennel or crate can be somewhat of a task, especially if you do not know where to start. Here, we will discuss the various factors to consider upon making your selection.

One of the very basic essentials is to know how big your dog is, and how big your dog is going to get if he is a puppy. Depending on the purpose, a dog crate can be either very big or very small. If you are going to be using your dog crate mainly for potty training purposes, then make sure to get one that is just big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down in. Dogs will usually not "go" where they have to sleep; especially if there will be no other space left for lying down.

If your dog is a puppy, then you might want to get a smaller dog crate, just for now. Once he begins to grow, you can purchase another one for when he gets a little older. Always keep a smaller dog crate just in case that you make the decision to adopt more puppies in the future. You can find dog crates at any store that sells pet supplies like dog collars and dog clothes. Make sure that the one you get is sturdy enough and also has a good lock on it.

Choosing a kennel for your dog also depends on several different factors as well. You will need to ask yourself how big your dog is now, and how big your dog is going to get. Think about where you will be placing the kennel. Is your yard large or fairly small? You will want to make sure that the size of your dog kennel is compatible with the size of your yard. If your yard is fairly small, then you do not want the kennel to take up most of the yard by any means. How much room do you want your dog to have to walk around inside of the kennel? Will you be keeping more than one dog inside of your kennel?

You can find dog kennels at pet stores, and you can also order them online. If you find that you are having trouble making a decision, try getting a second opinion. Perhaps you have friends or other family members who own dog kennels and crates. They might be more knowledgeable about the problems you could face, and might possibly know more about choosing one since they are already owners of kennels and crates. Think about the cleaning supplies you will need to invest in when purchasing your crate and kennel. Keeping these items clean is an absolute must.

All in all, the selection process should not be a difficult one if you think ahead of time. Purchasing a dog kennel and dog crate is a very smart decision. Dog owners understand the importance of needing a place to house their dogs, as well as a place to put them when potty training and other essentials are a necessary. These items will make you a happier owner, and when you are happy, your dog is a reflection of that.

Williams Commerce Launch Customer Magento eCommerce Website for Garden Bird Supplies

Leicester (PRWEB UK) 27 March 2013

Over the past ten to fifteen years, the importance of a company’s website has been exponentially growing in importance. At one point it was often optional, containing information and news a small number of consumers may be interested in studying. Today, the company website represents an absolutely essential and inseparable part of the businesses branding and success. They’re used to market, attract customers, convert visitors and drive sales, as well as processing the orders themselves.

Williams Commerce are proud to announce the launch of a brand-new Magento eCommerce website for Garden Bird Supplies, who are looking to expand on their previous successes in the bird feeding industry with a newly redesigned website constructed using the Magento development platform.

The Magento platform has been noted for its fast development times, sturdy architecture and comprehensive potential for integrating additional functionalities. With the new site Garden Bird will have the potential to manage their central, Amazon and eBay storefronts from a single location, processing orders and modifying listings as appropriate, for instance. They’ll also benefit from faster load times, and navigation well suited to the Search Engine Optimisation services Williams Commerce also offer.

A representative from Williams Commerce was available to comment on the launch and development of the new GardenBird.co.uk site. ‘They’ve seen their trade expand a lot over the last year, and this potential for growth is only set to continue. As more sales avenues and opportunities open up to them, it’s important the company is able to expand on their site organically without requiring major redevelopment. Now working as Magento specialists, it’s far easier for us to provide this kind of expandability through post-launch support.’

Williams Commerce are a digital marketing and Search Engine Optimisation agency, operating out of their headquarters based in the heart of Leicester. They recently moved into a specialisation in Magento development, with Garden Bird Supplies’ eCommerce website marking one of their first new projects. With a wide variety of new clients on board, the company hopes to continuing to strengthen their place in the field of Magento development over the coming year and beyond.

Is Freshwater Aquarium Algae The End Of Your Tank?

Freshwater aquarium algae are threats to aquatic life in a fish tank. They adapt well in an enclosed environment where there are available nutrients. They compete with aquarium plants for nutrients and decaying algae consume dissolved oxygen in the water. If they are present in small area of the aquarium, they can be supplements for some fish species but if uncontrolled, they contaminate water fast because they are short-lived. In general, all types of algae can have some benefits to aquatic life as long as they do not compete by multiplying rapidly.

Some algae species are edible like many of the seaweeds and they are sources of food in many parts of the world. There are hundreds of edible species and they are found to contain vitamins and minerals. They are also being processed as fertilizers and livestock feed. Algaculture is the study of farming algae for intentional purposes, which is a kind of aguaculture. In freshwater aquariums, there are quite a number of algae and they survive through the nutrients in the water. In some cases freshwater aquarium algae serve as food for aquarium inhabitants like shrimps and snails but if their growth is not controlled, they could be a threat to other aquatic life.

Commonly found in new aquarium setups are the brown algae. They also flourish in low-light aquariums where phosphate level is high while the nitrogen is low. They are a slimy and soft algae that are found in the aquarium glass, in the substrate, and even in decorations. It has been observed that brown algae go away in the presence of strong lights but may still remain in shadowy areas of the tank. In contrast, the green spot algae thrive in aquariums with strong light. They appear as green spots on aquarium plants and the tank glass. This type of freshwater aquarium algae is hard and appears if phosphate and carbon dioxide levels are low.

The hair algae and thread algae appear as strings in the water. They grow in aquarium tanks if there are excess amounts of iron. They can easily be removed by twirling a toothbrush around them. Thread algae grows on leaves of plants and normally found on leaf edges and can reach lengths of 30 cm. Hair algae usually grow at the base of plants and all over substrate and sometimes on decoration. They have green-gray color and grow to about 4 cm. Most aquarists welcome hair algae because fish like Angels and Barbs consume them as supplements to their food. Freshwater aquarium shrimps like the caridina japonica consume the algae in the likes of the thread algae.

A kind of algae that enhance the look of a tank is the beard algae. These types of algae form carpet like covering on pieces of stones bogwood, and slow growing plant leaves. Closer to light sources, they are created. They are soft and slippery and rapidly grow to a maximum of 3 cm. Beard algae need a stable constant light source and an lack of nutrient balance in your aquarium to get the perfect conditions they like. They are common in aquariums without plants and can be very difficult to remove manually. By putting fish in your tank that eat algea, you are instantly reducing the effect that algea can have on your tank which is a popular methed of control. Fish like the Rosy barbs, Siamese algae eaters, and Plecos would be a great help in reducing them. Before introducing them to the existing species in tank, make sure that they are compatible tank mates for the inhabitants presently in your tank. If they can not adapt to the present aquarium setup, they have little use in controlling the beard algae.

Freshwater aquarium algae in tiny patches add color and life to the aquatic ecosystem. Aside from serving as food for some aquatic life, they provide a sort of hiding place for fish fry. They are also good indicator that there is an imbalance in the system. They can show that there may be an excess of nutrients in the water. Excess nutrients may indicate that there is an overfeeding of fish and that an unhealthy plant is excreting some nutrients. Harm to certain plants and your fish are often indicated by the presence of algae and is often a sign to beware of danger in your tank.

The growth of freshwater aquarium algae depends on the existing conditions inside the tank. Three ways that algae can thrive in an enclosed ecosystem within your aqaurium. These necessities are water, light, and nutrients that are basic in all aquariums. Controlling these sources of life for algae is the major step in preventing them to grow and cause some damage. Light can be controlled by placing the aquarium far from the sunlight and artificial light must not be used more than eight hours per day. The light must also not be too bright and an automatic switch with a timer should be installed.

Aquarium fish eating habits are different in every species. In controlling phosphate levels that serve as food for algae, it is more practical to feed them with less than to overfeed. If fish have eaten and there are excess foods in the water, remove them immediately. Aside from removing floating wastes and excess foods in the water, changing part of the water will reduce the chances of phosphate and nitrate build up. Change at least 10 to 15% of the water once a week and scrape off any algae sticking on the glass at the same time. Testing the water from time to time is a good monitoring practice. You must stop algae grownth and you do this by destroying the perfect conditions that support their grownth in your tank

Dog Beds For Senior Or Incontinent Dogs

If your beloved dog is getting older, recovering from surgery or you have a dog who is incontinent, there are some dog bed products on the market to ensure your best mate is as comfortable as possible.

http://www.hulu.com/watch/187304&tit=Howcast Home: How to Buy a Memory Foam Mattress&l=2:02&vid=329dac425bbdeefb7143b920ffd969c3&sigr=110udps4e&sigb=12260r9ce&sigt=11f9nv6kb&sigi=11vkph6b8" target="_blank" data-pos="2"

Here are some things to consider when buying dog beds or senior or incontinent dogs:-

* Support

Just like humans older dogs suffer from aches and pains in their joints and benefit from using dog beds with firm support.

If these senior dogs or dogs recovering from surgery are using a dog bed with insufficient support their body will tend to sink into the bed which means their joints are positioned at odd and potentially uncomfortable angles. In addition to this these dogs have to put strain on these sore joints to get out of the 'sunken' position.

If however, you bought one of the dog beds which has better firmer support their joints will be better supported at comfortable angles and it will be much easier for your dog to step off the bed easily as the extra support has not allowed the dog to sink into the bed.

Some beds that offer specialised support are the orthopedic dog beds or memory foam dog beds, however make sure you buy a quality product.

* Breed Size

The sheer weight of your dog can be an issue when trying to purchase orthopedic dog beds or memory foam dog beds as many of these beds are simply not designed to provide support for the larger breeds.

A great option is the 'Big Dog Bed' which is more like a dog mattress than a dog bed. As well as measuring an impressive 1300mm x 880mm to accommodate the larger breeds this dog been has been designed with clever memory foam tops the thick inner of this bed which moulds beautifully to the contours of the dog's body ensuring the all over even support which is important for older dogs or those recovering from surgery. These dog beds also have a low impact, dampening effect make them ideal for older dogs, big or heavy dogs and dogs with joint problems.

* Incontinence

Having an incontinent dog can be a challenge for even the most devoted dog owner but there are some dog bed supplies that will make this challenge less taxing on you and provide your beloved dog with comfort.

1. Washable Dog Beds come in many styles however my suggestion is to buy a dog bed that has removable covers and buy some extras so that you can replace the cover while the other is being washed.

2. To protect the dog bed insert and to ensure your dog has a dry surface to lie on consider an innovative product called 'Stay Dry Matting'. This product is made from a synthetic material that lets dry air circulate through your dogs bedding keeping them warm, dry & comfortable. Best of all its machine washable and comes pre-sterilized. Again, it's a good idea to buy a couple of pieces of the Stay Dry Matting so that your incontinent dog has a clean, dry bed available while you are washing the other piece.

By considering all of these tips you'll be able to provide your dog with the comfort it needs during its old age or after surgery and ensure that you incontinent dog has a clean, dry bed at all times with less stress on you and your dog.

Some Advantages And Disadvantages A Wire Dog Crate Can Provide You And Your Canine

Your pet is a lot more than simply an animal to you. They are a member of your household. It is not constantly possible to take your pet along. You often have to perform human chores like go to your job. When you find yourself not able to often be with your pet, it may be beneficial to have a pleasant place for your furry friend to call home as long as you're away. A wire dog crate is really a fantastic answer for your dog. Canines are den animals by nature and appropriate use of a wire dog crate brings out this natural behavioral instinct in your puppy as well as supplying her a pleasing place to relax while you are away.

Wire dog crates provide fantastic room and also a relaxing environment to one's dog. They undoubtedly provide the most air flow of any type of crate and provide a pleasant view of the rest of the world. One of the most important points to take into account is to offer your dog with a wire dog crate that properly fits him or her. Wire dog crates come in many sizes, and it probably will be simple to match one to the size of your family dog. In case you have a puppy, one good thing to do is to choose a cage that will accommodate his adult size and make use of a crate divider to help keep it the size you would like as your pup grows.

Wire dog crates typically come with a handle designed for convenient moving. Also remember never to carry it using the handle with your pup on the inside. It may cause damage to the wire crate and more importantly, your animal. Many of the higher quality designs happen to be portable and fold flat for easy carrying. That helps make them fantastic for storing virtually anywhere you want to, like underneath the bed as well as inside the wardrobe. They're terrific for traveling by car. There are, actually styles which are created specifically to fit within specific cars such as wagons and SUVs. Make sure to fit your wire dog crate to your animal prior to fitting it for your automobile. It will not really do you any good to possess a crate that fits wonderfully inside your car, yet doesn't accommodate your dog.

Some downsides of the wire dog crate are the fact that it happens to be a great deal heavier than its plastic and soft counterparts as well as the fact that it is not permitted for traveling on airlines. However , if you will not be moving around by air, then you may not have to worry about this. Even though heavy, they are not as difficult to store than a plastic-type version, so it is actually your decision to determine which desires you and your family pet are likely to need when making your determination as to which kind might fit you best.

Similar to alternative types of pet crates, the wire version is amazing with regard to training purposes. Make sure to apply correct methods, plus if you'd like help, seek advice from one of the numerous specialized trainers that are available to you. With regard to training in your own home along with travel by vehicle, there is no more durable design compared to the wire model. There are plenty of advantages a wire crate can provide both you and your canine. Have a look and observe if one might be right for your puppy.

Labrador Retriever Training Tips

One of the best family dogs are Labrador retrievers. Once upon a time, they were known as 'St. John's Dogs' and were brought to England from Newfoundland Canada in the early 1800s. These dogs were used by Canadian fishermen to retrieve fish that feel off the hooks and even haul swimming lines and fishing nets. Today, these dogs are popularly known as 'Labs' and come in three colors; black, yellow (light cream to reddish) and chocolate (light to dark brown). They are the best dogs for children of all ages. However, many people believe it is rather a bit tough training Labrador retrievers. However, if you follow some basic Labrador retriever training tips, you will soon see a perfectly housebroken, trained and obedient pup making its way in everyone's heart. The following paragraphs will discuss some of the basic Labrador training tips for new owners.

Basic Labrador Training Tips for New Owners

When I talk about basic Labrador training tips for new owners, it is to be assumed we are discussing puppies. This is because, a new owner would probably choose a puppy over an adult dog. A puppy is easier to train and mold according to ones family needs and labs are mostly good dogs for kids. Bringing home a puppy helps strengthen the bond between a kid and the pup. Anyway, let us now begin with some Labrador retriever training tips, starting with the most important part.

House Training Labrador Retrievers

The moment a puppy is born, his mother begins to train him to feed, play and defend themselves. One needs to be consistent with the rules from day one. A small puppy make look really cute doing its funny antics, but, by overlooking their mistakes, you are encouraging bad behavior. However, training Labrador retrievers is not very complicated and can be fun for both the owner and the pup. You see, a puppy is just like a human kid, it does not know right from wrong. As an owner, you need to guide your puppy and undertake his dog obedience training in the right manner.

By the time a lab puppy is 2 to 3 months old, he should have begun his dog training lessons. You should teach him his daily routines, that is, location of food and water dishes. He should know he will be fed 3 times a day; morning, early afternoon and night. He should be aware of his bed, time of going to bed and the time to wake up. He should be aware of the route to be taken for his daily walks and the place he needs to go 'potty'. You should teach him the word 'NO' means to stop immediately with whatever that he is doing and 'Good' means he is being praised. This will help you with this housebreaking exercise. You see, a puppy needs to go to the bathroom many times a day as he still is not able to control his bladder. You should make sure he is taken to the same spot everyday at the same time to answer natures call.

You should wake him up at the same time in the morning from his sleep and immediately take him to the spot where he needs to go 'potty'. While he is doing his business, you should utter the word 'potty' or 'go potty'. This will help him associate the word to his action. Next, you should feed him at the same time and once he finishes, take him to the same spot for 'potty'. If he does not go 'potty', wait for sometime and allow him to pass urine to stools. As a puppy, he will have many accidents, thus, the minute you see him trying to go 'potty' within the house, shout out a loud and firm 'NO'. Clap or make some sound that will distract him and make him stop what he is doing. Immediately, take him to the spot where he needs to go 'potty' and allow him to relieve himself. If the puppy does have an accident within the house, there is no use lecturing or punishing him. He will not be able to comprehend what is upsetting you and will further push away the dog from your dog training efforts.

A Labrador retriever puppy may need to go and relieve himself many times a day. You should take him to the assigned spot every 1 ½ to 2 hours, whether or not he shows signs of 'potty'. Make sure you make him go to the bathroom, before he sleeps in the night. You may have to get up once or twice during the night and take him to the bathroom. Puppies as I said are like kids, they may need to use the bathroom at night too. When your puppy relieves himself at the assigned place, praise him and reward him. If your puppy has no accidents for a month, it means you have successfully house trained your Labrador retriever. If the pup has an accident, it means you have not been consistent and need to start all over again.

Leash Training Labrador Retrievers

Next in Labrador retriever training tips, is leash training. Your Labrador retrievers needs more than just a simple walk. He needs to be properly exercised and given ample of play time. Labradors are energetic dogs that love activities and games. They are good with fly ball, swimming, tracking and even playing fetch. But, before you take your puppy out in a park, you should make sure you have successfully completed dog leash training.

You should always have the length of the leash consistent. Never shorten or lengthen the leash as it will confuse the dog. Keep a comfortable length of the leash as it will help the dog know the distance he can be away from you. Keep in mind you are to be the alpha dog, the leader. If you give in to any of the dogs demands, you will have obedience problems. Dogs are pack animals and learn to follow a leader. You have to remain the leader for your dog.

While taking a walk, you should pull the dog in the direction you want to move. If your dog pulls you to a certain direction, stop in your tracks immediately. Do not move till the dog stops pulling you. Once the Labrador stops pulling, you should start walking in the direction you want to move. The dog will have no choice but to follow you. Make sure you take the same route everyday to help the dog recognize the way back home. Once you are successful with leash training, your dog will never leave your side. When your Labrador retriever follows your commands, make sure you shower him with praises. You can offer him dog treats as rewards for his good behavior.

Now, it is time to teach him to play fetch. You should toss a small flying disk or tennis ball towards your dog. Then, shout the word, 'Fetch'. When he has the ball or disk in his mouth, call out 'come' and allow him to drop the object in your hand. Once he completes this task successfully, praise him as much as you can and reward him with a treat.

Command Training Labrador Retrievers

There are a few basic commands a Labrador retriever should be taught as early as possible. These commands include; 'sit', 'sleep', 'stand', 'come', 'go', 'fetch', 'stop', 'no', etc. These commands should be as short as possible and very clear to understand. Do not use long words or sentences as the puppy will get confused. While you are leash training your Labrador retriever, make sure you teach him to 'sit' while on leash. This will help you break the habit of pulling the leash while going on a walk. Teach the dog to 'come' by saying the word or by using a whistle. When your dog comes to you on hearing the word or whistle, praise him and reward him with doggie treats.

If you are wondering how do you teach a dog to 'stand', 'sit' or 'sleep', well it is very simple. Sit or stand opposite your dog with a dog treat in your hand. Make sure the dog sees the treat and hold the treat over his head. Then move the treat in your hand from front to back and utter the command, 'sit'. Initially, you may have to direct the dog towards the ground and make him understand what 'sit' means. Once the dog sits, praise him and give him his reward. Repeat the same command for a few more times and give him a break. After sometime, repeat the same command, till he is trained properly. Continue the same process for the other commands. You should teach him to sit before you place the food bowl in front of him. This way you will have a well-trained dog on your hands. When you use 'NO', make sure you use a gentle, yet firm tone. A positive reinforcement is one of the key Labrador retriever training tips.

Labrador Retriever Training Supplies

You can visit a pet store or an online pet shop and find many Labrador retriever training supplies. These Labrador retriever training supplies include leashes, collar belts, beds, dog toys, dog treats, etc. You can even find kennels for your Labrador retriever that will help you kennel train him. There are many Labrador retriever training books available, that will guide you with the training process. These books also contain a lot of information related to Labrador retriever care. There are many professional dog trainers who offer services and train your puppy with the basic and advance dog obedience tricks.

You may have observed that nowhere in the above paragraphs, dog punishment has been mentioned. This is because punishing your dog will do more harm than good. It will create a negative image of the owner in the dog's mind, making him even more rebellious. Good dog care along with positive reinforcement, will help you inculcate good dog behavior in your dog. Hope the above paragraphs on Labrador retriever training tips have proven to be useful guide for you and your pup.

Wyld’s Wingdom to Exhibit at Global Pet Expo 2015

Norfolk, VA (PRWEB) February 18, 2015

Wyld’s Wingdom is excited to be exhibiting at the Global Pet Expo on March 4-6, 2015 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Wyld’s Wingdom, a wholesale pet bird supplies distributor, will be at Booth 3658 to display the diverse product line they distribute and provide information on pet bird merchandise, retail sales tips and bird behavior to the trade show attendees.

Specializing in avian care, Wyld’s Wingdom will offer expo attendees a large variety of wholesale pet bird supplies to purchase at special show pricing. Products available for purchase will include pet bird toys, bird foods, play gyms and stands for both small and large birds, cage accessories, training aids, educational tools, and more. Wyld’s Wingdom will be one of the hundreds of exhibitors that will be showcasing their products and services at what is known as the pet industry’s largest annual trade show.

With over 25 years of expertise and experience, Wyld’s Wingdom will help attendees by providing their retail customers with the proper products and will supply them with the latest information on pet bird wellness, avian care and safety.

President Mary Wyld says this about the show, “Global Pet Expo is the perfect venue for rejuvenating your product selection and exploring new ideas. Stop by and see us!”

Visit Wyld’s Wingdom at Booth 3658 at the Global Pet Expo. For more information, visit http://www.wingdom.com.

About Wyld’s Wingdom:

Wyld’s Wingdom is one of the nation’s largest wholesale pet bird supply distributors. Wyld’s Wingdom carries an enormous array of avian products at great values that customers can pass along to their retail setting. With its extensive expertise partnered with a tremendous selection of products, Wyld’s Wingdom will provide the best information and advice to its customers on the latest pet bird care, safety, and wellness information. The business, established in 1986, has been built on integrity and service and provides its customers with the variety, focus, and knowledge needed to make any bird department excel.

Reasons that Inexpensive and Unfavorable Quality Crates Can be Dangerous for a Dog

Cheap dog crates can do more than save you money - they may actually kill or injure your dog. Poorly constructed metal and plastic crates cause over 100 dog deaths every year due to cuts, infections and even strangulation. Before you waste your money and possibly your dog's life on a cheap crate, keep reading.

Not Air Certified

There's a reason most cheap dog crates aren't cleared for air travel - they're unsafe and not suited for air travel conditions. Typically, most air crates need to be easily opened and closed from the outside and provide the animal with enough ventilation and protection.

More important, a good carrier needs to be made from heavy-duty plastic. Last year, over 5 dogs were hurt after cheap plastic dog crates cracked because of pressure changes. The cracked and chipped plastic either cut or hit the animals. Obviously, their injuries were not noticed or treated until well after the plane landed.

Too Collapsible

Stay away from low-quality, wire crates that are collapsible. Numerous consumers have complained these crates do not hold up and can simply collapse on the animal without warning - a scenario that can be deadly for small puppies. While adult dogs typically won't be severely injured by a collapsed crate, being trapped for possibly hours is stressful and causes anxiety.

Not Enough Ventilation

Cheap dog crates that are made from plastic or fabric tend to not offer enough ventilation for your animal, making them feel trapped and as though they're not getting enough air. Several years ago, dogs in a California kennel were found dead after being kept in cheap, plastic kennels that were too small. The dogs suffocated.

Aside from asphyxiation, the other danger connected to poor ventilation in fabric or plastic dog cases is over-heating. A dog trapped inside a cheap crate for hours on a hot summer day can become dangerously dehydrated.

Buying a Good Crate

When buying a crate, look for one that's made from good materials, is big enough for your dog, has enough ventilation and is easily opened from the outside. If you purchase a wire crate, be sure to buy a crate mate to fit on the bottom.

Other Safety Considerations

Regardless of whether you're buying top-of-the-line or cheap dog crates, there are other safety factors to consider. For example, never put your dog in a crate while it's wearing a collar, as the collar can easily become caught on the wire. Also, always leave water and toys inside the crate and never, ever leave a dog alone or crated for more than 5 consecutive hours.