The X Pen keeps our pets on the go safe and secure.

The Xpen is a must for dogs and cats on the go.

Our pets love to be with us, no matter where we are. Either at home or while traveling, we want them to be safe. An exercise pen might remind us of one of those long forgotten playpens, but it is transportable and functional. Whether stopping for a night or a week, this pen can be set up quickly and easily.

An Exercise Pen, otherwise known as an Xpen, can be used outside or in and provides a fun and safe place for both dogs and cats. The dog show crowd has been using them forever, but to the majority of dog owners, they are basically unknown.

The Xpen consists of eight panels connected together with dual folding hinges. Each panel is 24 inches wide and comes in a variety of heights from 24 inches to 48 inches. When spread out, the panels stretch to a length of 16 feet. Because of the open end, two pens can be connected together or they can be set up next to a solid wall or fence for a larger play area. They can also be attached to a crate resulting in a house and play yard combo. The panels make a pen that can be 4X4 square, octagonal or long and narrow. These panels are made of wire mesh much like a kennel or crate but are lighter weight. The panels fold flat and can easily be stored out of the way.

Exercise pens can be bought either with or without a door. The door makes it heavier and is not necessary since where the end panels are snapped together provides a perfect entry.

For jumping or rambunctious dogs, tops are available. The tops are constructed either of wire mesh or sunscreen. The wire mesh top is secured to the pen with snaps which normally come with the top. The fabric top can be secured with snaps or ties. The wire top adds weight and rigidity which helps keep the whole pen more stable. With this top, the pen makes a safe place for cats. The wire top is a bit heavy and unwieldy, but is the most secure. The wire mesh top folds in half, 24 X 48 inches, for storage. The sunscreen top provides shade and has eyelets for securing it to the pen. The fabric top folds easily into a nice little package which is much easier to store than the wire top. When using either top, the pen must be configured in a 4 X 4 square.

A tarp underneath the pen keeps pets from digging out and also protects them from the cold ground. Indoor outdoor carpet makes a nice floor. Staking the pen to the ground adds additional security.

Xpens can be used inside the RV as well as outside if you have a larger rig than I do. By doubling the panels on a couple of sides, you can adjust the size of the pen.

Larger pet stores carry exercise pens or they can be ordered through pet supply catalogues. If you happen to pass through a town where one of these catalogue warehouses is located, you can pick one up and avoid the shipping charges. A search on the web can help you find such a place. Visiting one of these warehouses is great fun and normally, dogs are allowed to go in with you. There might be a minimum you have to spend in order to shop there, but that would never be a problem. You can find all sorts of wonderful and clever things for dogs and cats.

Exercise pens provide security and freedom for dogs and cats, both inside and outside, at home or on the road. For pets on the go, don’t leave home without an Xpen.

With questions or comments, contact Christy Powers at cpwrather@earthlink.net.