crates

[DobieMom]

For the people that have three medium size to large dogs that can put three crates in the element, do you take the seats out? What kind of crates do you use? Do you use the type made for suv's and minivans or do you use the plastic petmate kind? Thanks
DobieMom

[lae10851]

Unless you must have crates, it would probably be easier for you to get a pet barrier and a floor mat so they dont slip. This will allow much room for them and for you to haul items.

Just an idea. Thats how I carry my pups. :)

[curly dog lover]

If you want to put medium to large crates in the E you have to remove the rear seat. I took mine out a few days after I brought the car home, and I probably won't put them back in until I sell it!! My dogs ride in the car much more often than a third or fourth person!
I normally have my two dogs with me - the two IWS. I looked at the SUV crates, but thought that they were a bit overpriced. I ended up purchasing two large EZ-Crates. These are VERY reasonably priced and the crates have both an end and a side door. I ended up putting the two crates lenghthways in the back so that each dog loads through the side door - one at the back and one from the front. I bungee the crates together and to the tie downs so that they don't slide (and I have a carpet remnant on the floor as well). This leaves me some space behind the front seats for carrying stuff.
When I carry three dogs (my friend's lab when going to agility trials) I end up leaving one of my crates in and removing the other. I replaced that one with two slightly smaller crates side by side with the doors facing forward. I have to slide the front seats forward to load the dogs, but it isn't too difficult. I have seen several Elements at dog events and they each have their own combination of crates. I think it's just up to your creativity. Once you have the crates in, you can stack stuff on top of them as high as you want without encroaching on the dogs' space.
You may want to do what I did. When I was looking at the Elements I measured my crates and went to the dealership with a tape measure and made sure that they would fit. The salesmen got a kick out of this and were very helpful. They even asked me to bring the dogs when I picked the car up!
I realize that if I would have purchased a minivan I would have had much more room for the dogs, crates , etc... but it wouldn't have been nearly as much fun!!

[4dadogs]

I'm finding it troublesome to figure out how to put my 2 200 sized crates in. I thought for sure they'd both fit, side by side, behind the back seats. NOPE. If I'm alone, I can put both seats up in the back, and load the doggy stuff, but I'm considering taking a family road trip...3 humans, 2 dogs and luggage....
Anyone else use 200 sized crates? Any suggestions?

[Kigotai]

A horse trailer to pull behind your E for your dogs? Sometimes I think I need one with my 113 lb Dobie. :)