Kennel for $20

Kennel for a dog or cat made from a plastic storage bin

Step 1 Box selection

Select a box that's the right size for your pet.
- best boxes/storage bins have flat sides (easier to cut doors out)
- screw down the lid to the box with six nuts and bolts (this is so the kennel does not come apart)
-screw locations should be spread out to offer most strength (the corners and in the middle of the long sides are ideal spots)
- cut the entrance opening with a hack saw (start bending it downwards at the corners to make it cut downwards, this creates a nice rounded corner.
- drill ventilation holes around the top of the box (I used a 1" drill bit, spacing isn't critical as long as it's fairly even)

Comments

[hoverbored]

Ventilation & view - What if you used those cooling grids that you can put baked goods on after coming out of the oven to cool? They are cheap and often come 2 or more in a package. A fairly large one on each side, secured by a broad-headed screw on the inside, and a large washer & "end nut" on the outside (covered end nut to avoid snagging passers-by). Going TOTALLY cheap - you might use a series of PC fan grids, if you have access to a bunch of old PCs, like a lot of techies do.

[cindi59]

First..there is no way that not having a screen door is cruel! Get a grip! Even if using it for the dog's kennel there is no way could be considered cruel. She sad she even tested it and added more vent holes. I think this is a great idea! Especially when housebreaking!

[ArtisticBabe]

This is great usage of creativity. Great idea. Im worried about the front panel being all closed like that, its truly like putting them in a Tupperware container. What about moding it out by cutting a square hole in the front door panel and replacing it with rubber coated chicken wire? Just a suggestion. :)

[Modeo]

Good idea, I was going for the minimalist and $20 budget, and if I were to spend more on this project I would definitely incorporate the rubber coated chicken wire in the door. I have drilled quite a few more 3" holes all around, which gives the kennel a funky swiss cheese block look. I did take into consideration the dog head size and with 3" holes (for my breeds) will not get them stuck. Something to consider if you are making a kennel for smaller breeds.

[black-rose]

nice suggestion I was worried too I'm going to try that when i do it..it would have never thought of that .!thanks

[jgodsey]

My idea exactly. i would never put an animal in something that didn't have a screen door. you can drill all the holes you want. The average temperature of a healthy dog is 101 °F or 38 °C. Your dog will overheat in a short time even in your house on a mild day. Even if he doesn't have heat stroke, he may have brain damage. This is cruel. Use HARDWARE cloth with 1/2" screening to construct a proper Door. It is cheap and easy to work with. You can also use a door knob drill bit to drill some portholes around the sides.

[Modeo]

You must live in a hot climate. Your comment makes a few assumptions. I do not use this kennel in the house, I use it while traveling. I have modified the kennel, it has a greater percentage of holes than actual material. Large percentage of the holes are 3" in diameter. The kennel works very well has good: strength, ventilation, the dogs love it. They never overheat, even on hot days. Your perception of cruelty is miss guided and frankly judgmental. Thanks for the suggestions however I will not modify something that cost $20 to make and works very well as it is.

[jgodsey]

I stick by my original comment. without a cage door, i would call this inappropriate at the very least.

[Tumwatertechwhiz]

I don't know how much doggy doors cost at the hard ware store, but you might look into putting a small wood frame around the door with a lockable doggy door in the end. Just a thought. Cool idea though!

[Mr. Rig It]

Great Idea, This is one to keep in mind. Some of those kennels can get up to the $200 range.

[Very Keri]

It's a cute bed, but kennels that size are about 20-30 bucks at the store and they have doors and locks on them for portability (i.e. airplane rides) If i was going to make my own, I'd customize it with Krylon Fusion and some masking tape.

[snauzinator]

My dad made one out of two green-bins... they are these bright green recycle-type bins that our municipality has, or you could use "bin shoppin'" containers from the grocery stores. They already have tons of ventilation in them and all you need to add are hinges and a latch to keep it closed... no cutting involved, and its a great size! Voila, a pet carrier for <$10

[juandela]

yup, very cool. good for cats too. those things are damn expensive at the stores.

[trebuchet03]

I love it - talk about an awesome Tupperware hack :P

[Dark_Helmet]

Great idea! I haven't been able to find anything for my cats for less than $40. I'll definitely keep his in mind for the next time I have to replace a carrier.