How to Assemble an ASPCA Wire Kennel

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is known as a rescue and animal abuse prevention organization, but it also makes pet care items such as kennels and crates. The ASPCA kennels come assembled, but are designed to fold down to several inches thick for storage. The kennels are sold folded and must be unfolded and the sides secured before use.

  1. Preparing the Area

    • Make sure the area around where the kennel will be placed is free of wires and cords. Also, make sure you leave several inches between the kennel and the walls to prevent your dog from damaging wooden baseboards or the paint. Because of the way the kennel unfolds, you may not be able to unfold it in place. The kennel requires at least twice the width of the kennel base to successfully unfold. If necessary, place the kennel in the center of the room and move it into place once erected.

    Unfolding the Kennel

    • The sides and top of the kennel are folded over onto the base, and a plastic tray will be packaged on top. Lay the tray aside. The kennel is folded so that the left side is at the top of the stack followed by the top of the kennel and the right side. Lifting the left side will allow you to grip the top and lift the kennel up into a rectangle.

    Assembling the Kennel

    • The kennel has four sides in place after it has been unfolded. The ends will still be folded inside against the base of the kennel. One end will house the door and the other will be a metal wire grate, as with the sides. Hold the kennel top up with one hand, and pull one of the ends toward you. Align it with the curved hooks on the top and side pieces of the kennel. The kennel is secured it by sliding the ends behind these hooks. Repeat with the other end.

    Preparing the Kennel for Use

    • Each kennel is sold with a plastic tray that slides into the bottom of the crate to protect the floor and provide a lining. This tray slides in through a space under the door of the crate, and is held in place by a metal handle that is attached to the bottom of the kennel and extends up to the cross bar just under the door. With older dogs who can be trusted not to destroy bedding, a dog bed, blanket or large pillow can be added to the kennel. If the dog will be supervised while the kennel is in use, a few favorite toys can also be placed inside.