Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate

This is a standard, medium-to-large sized collapsible wire dog kennel or crate, constructed from heavy-gauge steel wire with a black e-coat or powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance. The design features a rectangular grid pattern with vertical and horizontal bars welded at intersection points. It includes a removable, leak-proof black plastic (composite) bottom tray, also known as a pan, which fits into the base to provide a solid floor for the animal. The crate is designed with a front-loading door secured by manual sliding bolt latches. There is visible surface oxidation and rust appearing at the weld points and along the bottom rails, indicating significant use or exposure to moisture. The structural integrity remains intact, though the finish shows wear consistent with long-term utility. The crate is currently housing a brindle-colored canine wearing a green nylon tactical-style harness. No manufacturer branding is immediately visible, but the design is typical of mass-produced pet supplies from the early 21st century.

Based on my visual inspection of this collapsible metal wire dog crate, I have determined it to be a mass-market utility item produced within the last 15-20 years. The crate features standard heavy-gauge steel construction with a dual-latch front entry and a removable composite tray. My physical assessment of the item reveals significant wear; specifically, there is localized oxidation and rust at the weld points and lower rails, which suggests prolonged exposure to humidity or moisture. While the crate remains structurally sound, this corrosion impacts both the aesthetic appeal and the long-term durability of the finish. The market for used pet crates is highly saturated with brands like MidWest Homes for Pets and Precision Pet Products. Given the visible rust and the lack of a secondary side-access door—a feature often preferred in modern premium models—this item sits in the mid-to-lower tier of the secondary market. Comparable items in similar pre-owned condition typically sell for a fraction of their retail price, which usually ranges from $100 to $140 new for this size. Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to test the tension of the wire under stress or the ease of the folding mechanism. A full authentication would require inspecting for embossed manufacturer stamps or patent numbers on the latches or tray, which are not clearly visible here. Provenance is not a factor for this utilitarian class of goods. Value is strictly based on functional utility rather than rarity or historical significance.