Looking for a dependable small pet carrier that balances style, safety, and convenience for quick trips?
Product Snapshot
Personal Anecdote: When I first started MidWest Spree Travel Pet Carrier review, I remember struggling with the basics. It took patience and a few mistakes to understand how to get it right.
You’re considering the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier | Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds, Small Cats & Small Animals | Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H – Inches. This model aims to be a fashionable, functional, and travel-ready option for toy dog breeds, small cats, and small animals when you need a compact, sturdy kennel for vet visits, short car trips, or visits to the pet store.
Key Features
You’ll find that the Spree emphasizes easy assembly, durable plastic construction, good ventilation, and clear visibility for your pet. It comes in three fun colors, has a built-in carrying handle, and includes a one-year manufacturer’s warranty from MidWest Homes for Pets.
What’s in the Box
When you unpack the carrier, you’ll typically find the hard top and base, the front door/doorway assembly, fasteners for the five-step assembly, and simple printed instructions. You don’t need tools for assembly, and the top and bottom should lock together with the included clips or latches.
Design and Build Quality
You’ll notice the Spree’s clean lines and compact profile the moment you pick it up — it’s meant to be both stylish and practical. The hard-sided construction gives the carrier a kennel-like feel that can provide security for pets that prefer a solid barrier over soft-sided options.
Materials Used
The carrier is manufactured from durable, easy-to-clean plastic, which you’ll appreciate for its resistance to odors and ease of wiping down after use. Plastic also keeps the carrier lightweight while still offering structural strength for everyday transport.
Durability & Strength
You can expect a solid feel for short trips, vet visits, or transporting a calm small pet; the hard sides resist bending and provide protective walls. For extremely inquisitive chewers or determined escape artists, you’ll want to keep an eye on wear at the latch points and door hinge area, but for typical pet use it holds up well.
Dimensions & Fit
You need to match the carrier size to your pet’s measurements so they can sit, turn, and lie down comfortably. The product is described as a 19-inch Spree carrier with exterior dimensions approximately 19.1L x 12.5W x 13H inches, and interior dimensions that matter most when fitting your pet.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions (approx.) | 19.1 L x 12.5 W x 13 H inches |
| Interior Dimensions | 17.91 L x 11.5 W x 12 H inches |
| Doorway Dimensions | 7.16 W x 7.63 H inches |
| Recommended Pet Type | Toy dog breeds, small cats, small animals |
| Weight (empty) | Lightweight (varies by color/model; generally under 6 lbs) |
Interior vs Exterior Measurements
You’ll want to focus on the interior dimensions, which tell you whether your pet has room to move and sleep. With the interior at about 17.91 x 11.5 x 12 inches, the carrier suits toy breeds and small adult cats, but you’ll want to measure your animal carefully against these numbers.
Doorway & Access
The doorway measures roughly 7.16 inches wide by 7.63 inches high, which is wide enough for most toy breeds and small cats to pass through comfortably. If your pet is wider around the shoulders or you use a bulky carrier harness, test entry before committing to longer trips.
Comfort, Ventilation & Visibility
Comfort starts with space and the ability for your pet to see out and breathe easily; the Spree addresses both with vent slots and a clear doorway. You’ll appreciate that pets aren’t completely isolated from their surroundings, which helps reduce anxiety for many animals.
Air Circulation
The carrier includes strategically placed vents along the sides and front to ensure adequate air circulation during typical short trips. You should still avoid prolonged exposure to direct sun or extreme temperatures in a parked car, as airflow from vents is not a substitute for climate control.
Pet Visibility & Stress Reduction
Because pets can see out through the front doorway and side vents, many feel less stressed when they can observe you and the environment. If your pet is easily startled by outside stimuli, you can partially drape a light cloth over the carrier to reduce visual input while keeping airflow.
Assembly & Portability
You’ll find the five-step assembly simple, and no tools are required, which is great when you need to set up quickly. The built-in handle is sturdy enough for routine carrying of small, calm pets and makes transitions from car to vet office effortless.
Step-by-step Assembly Experience
The top and bottom snap together with included fasteners; following the printed instructions usually takes only a few minutes. The simplicity of the assembly is convenient if you plan to keep the carrier assembled most of the time or need to disassemble it occasionally for storage.
Carrying & Handling
You’ll notice an ergonomic built-in carrying handle on the top that centers the carrier’s weight to make short transports comfortable. For longer distances, you’ll likely prefer to keep the carrier on a stable surface in your car rather than carrying it by hand for extended periods.
Cleaning & Maintenance
You’ll appreciate the straightforward cleanup — wipe with a damp cloth, mild soap, or use a pet-safe disinfectant spray for messes. The plastic surfaces resist stains and can be rinsed quickly if needed, but avoid abrasive cleaners that may dull the finish.
How to Clean (steps)
Start by removing any bedding and loose hair, then wipe the interior and exterior with a damp microfiber cloth and mild detergent. Rinse or wipe down again with clean water and let the carrier air dry completely before returning bedding and your pet inside.
Stain & Odor Management
A combination of baking soda and water can help neutralize lingering odors; sprinkle baking soda on fabric inserts, wait, then vacuum or shake out. For persistent smells, a vinegar-water solution can be used on plastic parts (avoid direct contact with fabric inserts unless they’re washable).
Safety & Security
You want a carrier that keeps your pet secure without being difficult to open in an emergency. The Spree provides a reliable latch and structured walls to prevent accidental openings during short trips and vet visits.
Locking Mechanism & Latches
The carrier uses built-in clips or latches designed to snap together and hold during routine movement; you can test them a few times to confirm they stay engaged. If you’re particularly concerned about a restless pet, adding a light zip tie or securing clip (used temporarily) can provide reassurance for a short trip.
Stability During Travel
When placed on a car seat or the floor, the Spree’s low profile and weight distribution help it stay stable during normal driving conditions. For added stability, you can secure the carrier with a seatbelt threaded through the handle or place anti-slip material under the base to prevent sliding.
Ideal Use Cases & Pet Types
You’ll find this carrier fits best for short trips like vet appointments, quick errands, and visits to the pet store, rather than extended airline travel. It’s marketed specifically for toy dog breeds, small cats, and small animals such as rabbits or ferrets.
Which Pets Fit Best
Toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers typically fit comfortably, as do many small adult domestic cats. For small animals, measure them in the position they prefer to rest — a curled-up ferret or rabbit may fit well, but larger individuals will need a bigger carrier.
When Not to Use It
You shouldn’t use this carrier for pets that need extended travel comfort or for medium/large dogs that require more headroom and legroom. Also avoid using it for animals that are heavy chewers or tend to scratch at plastic continuously, as persistent damage can compromise safety.
Pros and Cons
You want a balanced picture before you buy. Below are the main strengths and drawbacks to help you decide if this carrier aligns with your needs.
Pros
You’ll benefit from easy, tool-free assembly and a lightweight hard-sided design that’s easy to clean. The built-in handle, good ventilation, visible doorway, and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty make it a convenient, reliable choice for quick outings.
Cons
You may find the interior space limiting for larger small breeds or taller cats who need more headroom. The plastic construction is durable for normal use but can be vulnerable to determined chewers and may show scuffs over time.
Comparison with Similar Carriers
You’ll see many carriers on the market, both hard-sided and soft-sided, and choosing comes down to your pet’s behavior and the type of travel you do. The Spree is positioned as an everyday travel carrier for short trips rather than a premium airline-compliant or heavy-duty outdoor carrier.
Hard-sided vs Soft-sided
Hard-sided carriers like the Spree provide more rigid protection and are generally easier to clean, while soft-sided carriers often offer more flexibility, pockets, and shoulder straps for hands-free transport. If your pet prefers a den-like, solid-feeling space, hard-sided models tend to reduce anxiety for some animals, whereas soft-sided carriers can feel cozier and are often lighter and packable.
Size Alternatives from MidWest
MidWest offers other sizes and styles if you need more headroom or airline-approved measurements; you should check product lines like the iCrate or other hard-sided carriers for different sizing. If your pet is between sizes or you plan longer travels, stepping up to the next size gives extra comfort and reduces stress.
Warranty, Guarantee & Customer Support
You’ll be protected by MidWest Quality Guarantee with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, which covers defects in workmanship or materials under normal use. It’s wise to register the product or keep your purchase receipt so you can easily use warranty services if needed.
MidWest Quality Guarantee
The one-year warranty offers peace of mind that the carrier should last through regular short-term use without unexpected manufacturing failures. If you encounter problems within the warranty period, MidWest usually offers repair, replacement, or guidance on resolving the issue.
What to Do if You Have Problems
If you notice a defect, contact MidWest customer service with your purchase information and photos of the issue to start a warranty claim. Many retailers also offer return policies within a certain window after purchase, so check both the retailer and manufacturer options.
Practical Tips for Buying & Using
You’ll make the best decision by measuring your pet and testing how they behave in a similar-sized space before buying. Consider how you’ll carry and store the carrier, whether you plan to keep it in the car, and if you need extra accessories like a travel mat.
Tips for Measuring Your Pet
Measure your pet from nose to tail for length and from the top of their head to the floor to get the height they need to sit up comfortably. Allow for a few extra inches so your pet can turn around and change positions — cramped spaces increase stress and discomfort during travel.
Tips for Making Your Pet Comfortable
Place a familiar blanket or small bed inside to give your pet a comforting scent and soft surface, and introduce the carrier in calm, positive sessions at home so your pet associates it with treats and friendly handling. If your pet gets anxious, try short practice sessions with praise and a favorite toy to build positive associations before any necessary vet visits or travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have specific practical questions; below are common ones answered to help you decide.
Q: Is this carrier airline approved? A: This model is primarily designed for short ground trips and not necessarily certified for airline cabin travel. Airlines have strict size and construction rules, so check your carrier’s specific airline approval or choose an airline-approved model if you need to fly.
Q: Can I use this carrier for a half-day trip? A: Yes, for short to moderate durations your pet should be comfortable, provided you keep temperature and ventilation in mind. For longer outings, plan for breaks and ensure your pet can relieve itself or hydrate outside the carrier.
Q: Is the carrier easy to assemble without tools? A: Yes, assembly is tool-free and designed as a five-step process, typically taking just a few minutes. The snap-together fasteners are straightforward, but test all latches before putting your pet inside.
Q: Can I put a seatbelt through the handle to secure it? A: You should avoid threading a seatbelt through the handle in a way that places stress on the handle itself; instead, secure the carrier by placing it on the seat and buckling the seatbelt around the carrier base where possible. Use anti-slip material under the base or the vehicle’s footwell for added stability.
Q: Is the plastic easy to clean? A: Yes, the plastic surfaces are easy to wipe clean with mild soap and water or a pet-safe disinfectant. Remove and wash any fabric bedding separately according to label instructions.
Q: Will my small cat fit comfortably? A: Many small adult cats will fit comfortably, especially if they’re used to compact resting spots. Measure your cat when they’re in a relaxed position to confirm the interior dimensions will be adequate.
Q: Is the door secure against escapes? A: The door latch is adequate for most calm pets; for escape-prone or nervous pets you may want an additional temporary fastener for peace of mind. Always test the latch a few times and observe your pet in the carrier for the first few trips.
Q: Are replacement parts available? A: MidWest typically offers customer support for replacement parts; contact their customer service if a clip, hinge, or another component becomes damaged. Having your purchase information will speed up the process.
Final Recommendation
If you need a dependable, easy-to-clean, and compact hard-sided carrier for toy dog breeds, small cats, or small animals for quick trips, the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier is a solid, budget-friendly option. Measure your pet carefully, consider how you’ll use the carrier, and add small comforts like a favorite blanket to make every trip easier for both you and your pet.
Closing Notes and Next Steps
You’re ready to decide based on how your pet measures up to the interior dimensions and your typical travel needs. If you value quick assembly, durable plastic that’s easy to maintain, and a compact profile for short transports, this carrier is worth considering; if your plans include frequent long-distance travel or airline transport, look into larger or airline-approved alternatives from MidWest or other reputable brands.
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