When it comes to traveling internationally with your dog, ensuring their safety and comfort is essential. The Skudo 7 Dog Crate offers a reliable solution for dog owners seeking peace of mind during long journeys. Although note that the Skudo crates are not approved by QANTAS freight for use into or out of Australia. We used the Skudo 7 Dog Crate when flying with our beagle, Sniffy, from Lisbon to Miami, and the crate met our expectations in terms of durability and comfort. This review will highlight the features, product specifications, and our personal experience.
Features:
- Sturdy Construction: The Skudo 7 Dog Crate is made from high-quality, impact-resistant plastic, offering a secure and protective enclosure for your dog during transit. It’s built to withstand the rigors of air travel, ensuring that your pet remains safe, no matter how long the journey.
- Airline Approved: This crate meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, making it suitable for air travel with most major airlines, including TAP Portugal, which we used for Sniffy’s flight.
- Spacious Interior: The crate provides plenty of room for dogs to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, which is especially important for reducing stress during long flights. The Skudo 7 is likely to big for Sniffy and he had ample space inside, which we think helped keep him relaxed on our transatlantic journey.
- Ventilation: Equipped with ventilation slats on all sides, the Skudo 7 ensures optimal airflow, preventing overheating and allowing your dog to breathe easily. The multiple slats keep the air fresh, even in warm climates or during long flights.
- Secure Locking System: The crate features secure, spring-loaded latches that keep the door firmly closed during transit, ensuring your dog cannot accidentally escape. This locking system gave us peace of mind, knowing Sniffy was safe inside the crate during handling.
- Wheels for Easy Mobility: You can add wheels for easier transport through the airport. We used these wheels, which were especially helpful when navigating the Miami airport after our long flight.
- Easy Assembly: The crate is designed with a snap-together assembly that doesn’t require tools. It’s easy to set up, making it convenient for busy travelers like us. Setting it up in Lisbon was a breeze, and we were ready in minutes.
Product Specifications:
- Materials: The Skudo 7 is made from durable, non-toxic plastic that is both lightweight and strong. The plastic construction ensures that the crate is not too heavy, but robust enough to protect your dog.
- Sizes and Dimensions: The Skudo 7 Dog Crate comes in various sizes to fit dogs of different breeds and sizes. The size we used for Sniffy was the Large (Skudo 7), which measures:
- External Dimensions: 105 cm (L) x 73 cm (W) x 76 cm (H)
- Internal Dimensions: 100 cm (L) x 68 cm (W) x 71 cm (H)
- Crate Weight: 10.7 kg (23.6 lbs)
The spacious interior was ideal for Sniffy, who is a medium-sized beagle. For larger breeds, consider the XL version for extra space.
- Colors: The Skudo 7 comes in neutral colors like grey and blue, making it aesthetically pleasing and practical for travel. The subdued tones help keep the crate looking clean, even after rough handling during travel.
- Country of Manufacture: The Skudo 7 Dog Crate is manufactured in Italy, known for its high standards of production quality. The Italian craftsmanship is evident in the sturdy build and secure locking mechanisms.
- Build Quality: The build quality of the Skudo 7 is excellent, with reinforced corners and a robust frame designed to endure the pressures of cargo transport. The plastic is thick and durable, yet lightweight enough to carry easily. The steel door is sturdy and resistant to bending, and the ventilation slats are designed to resist impacts while providing airflow. The integrated handles and optional wheels further enhance the crate’s portability and ease of use.
Benefits:
- Safety Assurance: The Skudo 7 Dog Crate provided a safe environment for Sniffy, minimizing the risk of injury or escape during transit.
- Comfortable Travel Experience: The spacious interior and ventilation ensured that Sniffy was comfortable throughout the long flight. He had enough room to stretch out and relax, which helped reduce his stress levels.
- Convenient Portability: One of the best features we found was the integrated carrying handle and the addition of wheels. When we arrived in Miami, Sniffy was delivered in his crate at the luggage collection area for large items. Since he had to stay in the crate while we navigated through the airport, it was a relief that we had the wheels and handle to pull him comfortably. As we were staying at the Miami airport, the wheels made it easy to stack and wheel our luggage and crate through the terminals without hassle.
- Versatile Use: Beyond air travel, the Skudo 7 Dog Crate can also be used for road trips, vet visits, or as a cozy retreat at home, offering versatility for pet owners with diverse needs.
Considerations:
- Size Limitations: While the Skudo 7 Dog Crate comes in various sizes to accommodate different breeds, it’s essential to carefully measure your pet to ensure the appropriate fit and comfort during travel.
- Additional Accessories: Depending on your dog’s preferences and needs, you may consider adding bedding or familiar toys to enhance their comfort and sense of security inside the crate.
In conclusion, the Skudo 7 Dog Crate stands out as a reliable and airline-approved solution for international travel with your beloved dog. Its sturdy construction, ample ventilation, and secure locking system provide the safety and comfort necessary for a stress-free journey. With its convenient portability and versatile use, this crate is an indispensable companion for pet owners embarking on adventures near and far.
Click here to purchase the Skudo 7 Dog Crate on Amazon (*Note: This link is an Amazon affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.*)
