Forum Discussion

mmikemitchell's avatar
mmikemitchell
Explorer
Jul 16, 2013

Patio Enclosure

1st time here.
We bought a 29ft TT and will be taking off in Oct to winter in southern Calif.

We have a lab dog and are thinking about buying an enclosure that attaches to the awning. Seems like a great idea, which gives us the option of leaving the dog in the enclosure/trailer while we are gone.

While it seems like a great idea, I have yet to see anyone actually use one in any of the RV parks. Could be because I'm in the NW and people just don't use them here, but before I buy I would like to know if there is a reason we don't see them.

Thanks for your input.
Mike
  • evanrem's avatar
    evanrem
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2013
    Our Friends have one and they love it. The only negative thing I see is set up time, takes about 25 min. We had one for our pop up and it was nice but setup was a pain.
  • JJBIRISH's avatar
    JJBIRISH
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2013
    I have one had it for years used it twice now it’s stored with all the other stuff I bought and didn’t need…
    The apron is coach specific so I would have to make a new one to even use it again…

    They would IMO not be a good pet enclosure while you are gone, even for a good pet…
  • robsouth's avatar
    robsouth
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2013
    We had one years ago, used it once and gave it away. Too much trouble to set up and take down, especially if the wind gets up quick..
  • louiskathy's avatar
    louiskathy
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2013
    If you are thinking of CRATING your pet and putting the crate in the patio enclosure... possibly, but not a fool proof way to keep him safe or quiet.
  • usmc616's avatar
    usmc616
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2013
    I was looking to buy one but with an electric awning it would be a pain to remove if it got windy real fast and I needed to retract the awning.
  • ksbowman's avatar
    ksbowman
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2013
    I use one on hunting trips and love it. Gives us a place to change boots and clothes in a nice, open, dry area. Also makes a nice open area to eat, cook and visit without worry about dragging in a lot of dirt. Does take about 20 minutes to set up once you've done it before. Like above though you'd need to crate your dog, unless he is good about respecting the screen and canvas.
  • Hondavalk's avatar
    Hondavalk
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2013
    Used one for years but got tired of packing it and the setup time. I made mine out of 4 X 8 sheets of plastic lattice and thin wall conduit. Used the awning arms to support the sides. Would not leave the dogs unattended at my campsite though.
  • md2lgyk's avatar
    md2lgyk
    Explorer II
    Jul 16, 2013
    We have one, but have only used it a couple of times. We don't set it up unless we're going to stay put for a couple of weeks. There's no way it would keep a dog in.
  • PAThwacker's avatar
    PAThwacker
    Explorer
    Jul 16, 2013
    Weekends no way KISS, labs stay in ac all day long. Ours loves to camp but prefers to be inside chilling out.

About Travel Trailer Group

44,029 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 13, 2025