We use the X-pens all the time and contrary to our resident Park owners comments, we never leave them unattended outside, we sit out with them to keep them under control. With four small dogs and late night-early morning "doing their business" keeps us from leashing them up and walking about the campground. We simply open the door, stand in the door and keep an eye on them, they do their thing and we clean up everything in the light of day. I don't think I've ever seen someone who uses pen's, leave any pet inside one while the owner's are away. As stated, if the kids are outside, we are outside with them!