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How does crating and shelter influence a dog's health and well-being?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

How can shelter and caging influence an animals health?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2017

Any animal left outside should have shelter, and while crating dogs can help with their anxiety, they should never be left in a crate for longer than eight hours at a time. Leaving a dog locked up in a crate all the time is abusive and will have detrimental effects on the mental and physical wellbeing.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    In a shelter setting, respiratory diseases (such as kennel cough and canine influenza) can be spread rapidly through the air and other fomites. If hygiene is not adequate, parasites and viruses can persist in the environment and spread readily.

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