Available to buy here:
Welcome back to “Pet sacular,” where we dive into the best products for your furry friends! Today, we’re taking a look at the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel—a portable dog carrier designed for small dogs that need safe and comfortable travel. Whether it’s for a quick trip to the vet or a cross-country flight, we’re going to see if this kennel really meets all the needs of pet parents.
First off, let’s get into the details. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a durable, airline-friendly dog carrier made of sturdy plastic. It’s specifically designed for smaller dogs, with an interior space measuring 16.2 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 9 inches high—perfect for pets weighing up to 10 lbs. It’s constructed with a secure, easy-open wire door and features tamper-proof holes for zip ties, ensuring your pet stays safely contained, especially during air travel. Plus, the four-sided ventilation offers a comfortable and breathable experience for your pet on the go.
Now, let’s talk about using the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel in real-world situations. Setting it up was a breeze—no complicated assembly here. The kennel is light enough to carry around, but it doesn’t feel flimsy. When I put my dog inside, there was plenty of room for him to move around and even lie down. It’s not a palace, but it’s certainly spacious enough for shorter trips or for your dog to relax while waiting at the airport. On the downside, the plastic construction feels a bit basic, and I wouldn’t necessarily call it “luxury” for your pet, but it does get the job done.
Now, let’s break it down. The pros include its sturdy design, secure locking mechanism, and the fact that it’s airline-approved. It’s easy to clean, which is a huge plus if you’re dealing with an anxious dog who might have an accident. The stay-dry moat is a nice touch for keeping your dog dry during travel, and the ventilation holes ensure that your dog can breathe easy. On the other hand, cons include the lack of extra padding or a plush liner, so if your dog has joint issues or really loves comfort, you might want to consider adding your own. Also, while it’s great for smaller dogs, anything over 10 lbs is going to feel cramped.
So, how does it compare to similar products on the market? There are a lot of dog kennels out there, but the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel stands out for being lightweight yet secure. Other carriers may offer more luxurious features or extra comfort, but they’re also usually more expensive. If you’re looking for something practical and affordable, this is a solid choice. However, for those willing to spend a bit more, you could find a kennel with more plush bedding or extra features, but they might not be as easy to carry around.
In terms of build quality, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is fairly solid for the price. The plastic feels like it will hold up well, but I’d hesitate to say it will withstand rough handling over the long haul. It does the job for frequent flyers or short trips, but if you’re a pet owner who travels often or needs a kennel for long-term use, you might want to look at more rugged alternatives.
If you’re considering alternatives, there are other carriers that offer more comfort, like the Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier, which is a bit pricier but comes with extra padding. If you’re mainly looking for functionality and an affordable option, this Petmate kennel is a reliable choice.
When it comes to customer support, Petmate has a solid reputation for customer service. I didn’t need to reach out myself, but it’s always good to know that a brand stands behind its products, especially when it comes to something as important as pet safety.
Now, the final verdict. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a well-built, practical, and affordable option for traveling with small dogs. It’s safe, secure, and airline-friendly, and it performs well in a variety of travel scenarios. However, it lacks some of the comfort features that other, more expensive models offer. For a budget-friendly option that gets the job done without a lot of bells and whistles, it’s hard to beat.
If this review helped you out, give us a like, subscribe, and hit that bell so other pet parents can find this video too. Got any thoughts on the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel? Or maybe you’ve tried a different carrier you love? Drop your comments below—I’d love to hear your experiences!
Thanks for watching, and remember—keep your pets happy, healthy, and always ready for the next adventure. Till next time, paws and consider your pet’s travel plans!
Available to buy here:
