?Are you trying to find a safe, comfortable, and fuss-free carrier for short trips with your small cat or dog?
Overview of the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier
Common Mistake: A lot of people assume that MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier review is simple, but overlooking small details often leads to frustration. Avoid skipping the fundamentals!
This review covers the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier – Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier, Small Pet Travel Crate with Handle, Ventilated Design, Easy Assembly, 22-Inch, Green and what to expect when you use it. You’ll learn about design, assembly, comfort, safety, cleaning, travel scenarios, and whether it fits your pet’s needs.
What’s included in the box
When you open the package you’ll find the two-piece polypropylene shell, a wide-wire door, all the snap-in fasteners, and the built-in handle already attached. Everything you need is in the box, and the product is ready to assemble without extra tools or hardware.
Key specifications at a glance
This model is sized for small pets and has a compact, hard-sided design intended for quick trips and vet visits. Below is a quick reference table so you can see the main specs at a glance.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product name | MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier – Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier, Small Pet Travel Crate with Handle, Ventilated Design, Easy Assembly, 22-Inch, Green |
| Interior dimensions | 20.7 x 13.22 x 14.09 inches |
| Exterior length | 22 inches (approx.) |
| Capacity | For cats or extra-small dog breeds up to 15 lbs |
| Material | Durable polypropylene shell, wide-wire steel door |
| Ventilation | Ventilated sides and top openings |
| Assembly | Patented 5-step snap-together assembly (no tools) |
| Handle | Built-in top handle |
| Colors | Available in three colors (including green) |
| Use cases | Vet visits, short trips, car rides, pet store |
| Manufacturer | MidWest Homes for Pets (family owned) |
| Customer support | Based in Indiana, family-operated support |
Design & Build Quality
The Spree carrier is designed to be straightforward and sturdy, with a hard-sided shell that protects your pet and resists wear. You’ll notice a practical focus on durability and ease of use rather than luxury features or heavy padding.
Materials and durability
The carrier’s shell is made from polypropylene, a lightweight yet resilient plastic that wipes clean and won’t deform easily under normal use. You’ll appreciate that the material is durable enough for years of occasional travel and handling.
Ventilation and visibility
Ventilation is provided by multiple side vents and a wide-wire steel door that gives your pet fresh air and a view of their surroundings. You’ll find this helpful for reducing anxiety because your pet can see outside and feel less confined.
Door design and latching system
The wide-wire door swings open in either direction and secures with a simple latch to keep pets safely inside. You’ll like the reversible door option because it makes loading and unloading more convenient no matter how you position the carrier.
Handle and portability
The built-in handle sits on top of the carrier and lets you pick it up with one hand for quick trips. You’ll notice it’s comfortable for short carries, though for extended walks or long-haul travel a carrier with padded straps or trolley compatibility may be more comfortable.
A carrier with personality
MidWest offers this carrier in three fun colors so you can match your taste and your pet’s personality. You’ll appreciate that it doesn’t look strictly utilitarian—there’s a bit of style so your pet’s gear can reflect your aesthetic too.
Size & Comfort
The Spree carrier is intended for small pets, offering a snug, cozy interior that’s great for short rides. You’ll need to match your pet’s size and temperament to the interior dimensions to make sure the fit is right.
Interior space and fit
With interior dimensions of 20.7 x 13.22 x 14.09 inches, the carrier provides enough room for a small cat or extra-small dog breed to sit, stand, and turn around. You’ll want to measure your pet beforehand to ensure they can sit comfortably without feeling cramped.
Weight limit and suitable pet types
The carrier is designed for pets up to 15 lbs, so it’s best suited for many adult cats, kittens, and toy or teacup dog breeds. You’ll find it perfect for most small animals that require a confined but ventilated space for short trips.
Comfort features inside
While the carrier doesn’t include a built-in cushion, you can add a small pad or towel for extra comfort and insulation. You’ll want to pick a washable pad or blanket that’s thin enough to allow the door to close and secure properly.
Assembly & Maintenance
The carrier’s assembly is one of its biggest selling points because it’s intended to be simple and tool-free. You’ll be able to snap it together quickly, which is handy when you need the crate ready in a hurry.
Patented 5-step assembly
The patented 5-step snap-together assembly lets you put the carrier together in minutes without tools or extra parts. You’ll appreciate that you don’t need to fumble with screws or complicated instructions—the pieces align and lock into place cleanly.
Step-by-step assembly tips
Even though assembly is straightforward, it helps to lay out the parts first and follow each step slowly, ensuring each snap is secure. You’ll want to double-check the door alignment and latch engagement before placing your pet inside to make sure everything is locked properly.
Cleaning and care
The polypropylene shell wipes clean with a damp cloth or mild cleaner, and the wire door can be rinsed or wiped down easily. You’ll find that routine cleaning is quick and uncomplicated, which makes it ideal for vet visits or muddy outdoor returns.
Long-term maintenance
To keep the carrier in good shape, check the snaps and door latch periodically for wear or damage, and replace any small accessories like a worn pad. You’ll also want to store the carrier in a dry place to prevent any buildup of odors or mildew on removable bedding.
Safety & Security
Safety is a key consideration when transporting your pet, and the Spree carrier addresses several practical points to keep your pet secure. You’ll need to use some judgement about how you secure the carrier in a car or other vehicle, depending on your travel needs.
Door security and locking mechanism
The wide-wire steel door uses a simple latch that keeps it closed during normal handling and short trips. You’ll want to test the latch before each trip to ensure it’s engaged and consider an additional small carabiner or zip tie if you’re particularly worried about escape during rough handling.
Shell strength and stability
The hard polypropylene shell offers decent impact resistance and prevents compression from light knocks and typical handling. You’ll find it sturdy enough for most short trips, but for heavy-duty travel or airline transport you may prefer a heavier-duty or airline-approved crate.
Car travel safety considerations
For car travel, place the carrier on the floor behind the front seat or secure it with a seat belt around the handle or base to reduce shifting. You’ll want to avoid placing it in the front seat with an active airbag and always make sure the carrier can’t slide or tumble in sudden stops.
Preventing escapes and stress
Make sure the door latch is fully engaged and that there are no broken latches or warped seams. You’ll also want to minimize stress by introducing the carrier gradually and ensuring comfortable bedding inside.
Using the Carrier on Trips
This carrier is built primarily for short trips like vet visits, pet store runs, and local outings. You’ll find it convenient for those common scenarios where safety and portability matter more than long-term confinement features.
Vet visits and short errands
The Spree is especially handy for vet visits because it’s easy to clean, quick to load, and compact for crowded waiting rooms. You’ll appreciate being able to carry your pet in and out quickly without bulky straps or complex latches.
Car rides and local travel
For short car trips the carrier provides a safe enclosed space where your pet can’t distract the driver. You’ll want to secure the carrier with a seat belt or place it on the back seat floor to prevent shifting and reduce motion.
Air travel and airline rules
This carrier is not designed as an airline-approved hard crate for cargo travel, and individual airline requirements vary widely. You’ll need to check airline rules if you plan to fly with your pet—many carriers require specific certification and harsher durability for checked or cargo travel.
Public transport and walking
For bus or train travel, the carrier’s compact size makes it manageable on public transit where small carriers are allowed. You’ll still want to confirm the transit provider’s rules about pets and carriers to make sure yours conforms to size and containment rules.
Pet Behavior and Acclimation
How your pet reacts to a carrier depends on personality, past experience, and your approach to introduction. You’ll often see the best results by making the carrier a positive, familiar spot before trip day.
Introducing the carrier at home
Leave the carrier out with a soft towel and treats for a few days so your pet can sniff and explore it freely. You’ll want to reward calm behavior and avoid forcing your pet inside, which can create a negative association.
Familiar scents and comfort items
Place a worn t-shirt of yours or a blanket that smells like home inside the carrier to create a reassuring scent cue. You’ll also want to include a small favorite toy or treat to help reduce anxiety during the trip.
Training and short practice sessions
Practice short, calm entries into the carrier with praise and treats to build positive memories of travel. You’ll find that brief, frequent sessions with rewards are more effective than long or stressful placement.
Managing stress and motion sickness
If your pet experiences motion sickness or travel anxiety, consult your veterinarian for tips or medications that can make travel easier. You’ll also want to avoid feeding a heavy meal immediately before a car ride to reduce nausea.
Pros and Cons
The Spree carrier offers a balanced mix of portability, simplicity, and affordability, while also having limitations for certain travel types. You’ll find the pros helpful for everyday trips, and the cons important if you need airline compliance or long-duration travel features.
Pros
You’ll notice several advantages including sturdy hard-sided protection, easy tool-free assembly, quick cleaning, and good ventilation for short trips. You’ll also appreciate the built-in handle and reversible door for ease of loading and carrying.
Cons
The carrier’s interior space is limited to pets up to 15 lbs, it lacks built-in padding, and it’s not intended as an airline cargo crate. You’ll want a different product if you need extended confinement, multiple pets, or airline-certified transport.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable hard-sided polypropylene shell | Not airline-approved for most cargo travel |
| Fast, tool-free patented assembly | Limited to pets up to 15 lbs |
| Ventilated design with wide-wire door | No built-in padding or divider |
| Easy to clean and maintain | Handle only suitable for short carries |
| Reversible door for easy loading | Not ideal for large breeds or long trips |
| Available in multiple colors | Limited accessories included |
Comparison with Other Carrier Types
Understanding how this hard-sided carrier stacks up against soft-sided carriers and other hard crates will help you choose the right tool for your needs. You’ll see that each carrier type has trade-offs regarding comfort, security, and portability.
Hard-sided vs soft-sided carriers
Compared with soft-sided carriers, the Spree offers more protection against bumping and poking, and it’s easier to clean. You’ll prefer it when you want a sturdier shell and easier sanitization, while soft-sided models often provide more flexibility for fitting under seats and lighter carrying.
Hard-sided travel carrier vs airline crates
This mid-sized hard carrier is great for short trips but does not meet many airlines’ requirements for cargo travel, which often require heavy-duty hardware and fixed ventilation. You’ll need a certified airline crate if you plan to check your pet in cargo for flights.
Alternatives to consider
If you want more padding, look for carriers that include a cushioned insert or removable bed, while multi-function carriers with straps might be better for walking or public transit. You’ll also find backpack-style carriers helpful if you often carry your pet hands-free.
Who This Carrier Is Best For
This carrier is ideal if you regularly take short trips to the vet, groomer, or local outings and have a small cat or extra-small dog under 15 lbs. You’ll appreciate the quick assembly, easy cleaning, and ventilated design if you need a convenient, no-fuss carrier for everyday use.
Suitable pet owners and lifestyles
If you drive locally and make frequent short trips, this carrier is a practical choice that balances protection and portability. You’ll find it less suitable if you need airline-approved crates, overnight confinement, or accommodations for larger pets.
Situations to avoid using this carrier
Avoid using the Spree as your primary solution for long-distance airline travel, heavy-duty outdoor travel, or for pets that require significant behavioral management during trips. You’ll want a sturdier or certified option for those situations.
Customer Support, Warranty & Brand Background
MidWest Homes for Pets is a family-owned company with over 100 years in business, and their customer support is based in Indiana. You’ll find that they generally stand behind their products and offer accessible support if you need help or have questions.
Warranty and support details
While specifics can vary by retailer, MidWest typically provides customer assistance and stands behind the quality of their products. You’ll want to check the product packaging or retailer listing for exact warranty terms and contact information.
Family-owned commitment
Being family-owned for over a century suggests the brand values customer relationships and product consistency. You’ll often find attentive support and straightforward replacement procedures if parts are missing or defective.
Tips for Buying and Measuring Your Pet
Getting the right size carrier is crucial, and a few simple measurements will save you time and stress. You’ll be able to pick the right option if you follow a few practical steps.
How to measure your pet correctly
Measure your pet from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail for length, and from the top of the head to the floor for height while they stand naturally. You’ll want to add a couple inches to both measurements to ensure they can sit and turn comfortably inside the carrier.
Choosing the right accessories
Pick a thin, washable pad or towel to add comfort without taking too much internal space, and consider a small travel water bottle if your trip will be longer. You’ll also want to pack treats, a leash, and any medication in an accessible spot.
Buying tips and checks
Before buying, confirm the interior dimensions against your measured pet size and read customer reviews for real-world fit and durability feedback. You’ll want to check return policies and shipping times if you need the carrier quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section answers common questions you might have when considering this carrier for your pet. You’ll find quick, practical answers to help you decide.
Is the carrier airline-approved?
This carrier is not designed for airline cargo certification; it’s primarily intended for short trips and in-vehicle use. You’ll need to check your airline’s specific crate requirements if you plan to fly.
Can two small pets share the carrier?
Two very small pets might fit if their combined weight is under 15 lbs and they’re both comfortable in tighter quarters. You’ll want to ensure they can both sit and turn without being cramped and consider behavior—some pets may become stressed when forced to share a small space.
How do I clean the carrier if my pet has an accident?
Wipe down the polypropylene shell with a damp cloth and mild cleaner, and rinse the wire door as needed. You’ll want to remove and wash any bedding and let the carrier air-dry thoroughly before reuse.
Is the door reversible?
Yes, the wide-wire door can open in either direction, which makes loading and unloading more flexible. You’ll find this useful when you need to orient the carrier differently in cars or waiting rooms.
Can I use this carrier for overnight stays?
This carrier is best for short-term use and not intended for prolonged overnight confinement. You’ll want a roomier crate with more padding if your pet must stay overnight.
How long does assembly take?
Assembly usually takes just a few minutes, thanks to the patented 5-step snap-together system. You’ll find it quick and easy, especially once you’ve assembled it once.
What colors are available?
The Spree comes in three colors, including the green model described here. You’ll likely find one that matches your preferences or pet’s personality.
Final verdict
If you need a reliable, easy-to-clean, and quick-to-assemble carrier for routine trips, the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier is an excellent choice for small pets up to 15 lbs. You’ll enjoy the balance of durable protection, ventilation, and portability for everyday travel, while recognizing it’s not designed for airline cargo or extended confinement.
Quick recommendation
Choose this carrier if you take frequent short trips to the vet or around town and want a simple, sturdy option that’s ready to use right away. You’ll want to pick a different model if you need airline certification, extra internal space, or long-duration accommodations for your pet.
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