Overview
The Sky Kennel is Petmate’s travel crate, designed around the crate standards airlines and pet shippers use. The 32-inch size is for dogs of about 30 to 50 lb. Petmate lists it at 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches outside and 29.5 x 19.75 x 23.5 inches inside, with the kennel itself weighing 16 lb. The shell is made from Petmate’s EcoTEC plastic, which the brand says contains at least 90% pre-consumer recycled material, and the kennel is made in the USA.
Petmate states the Sky Kennel is compliant with the 51st edition (2025) of the IATA Live Animals Regulations and meets most airline cargo specifications. That is not the same as universal airline approval. Each airline sets its own rules on kennel size, hardware, and whether it accepts pets as checked baggage or cargo at all, and Petmate itself tells buyers to check with their airline before travelling.
Key features
- Heavy-duty plastic shell with a metal door
- Four-way ventilation
- Plastic wing nuts and latches holding the two halves together
- Interior 29.5 x 19.75 x 23.5 in; for dogs about 30 to 50 lb
- Petmate says the Sky Kennel includes live animal stickers, ID stickers, a food and water cup and absorbent material (check the listing for your size)
- No carry handle on the 32-inch size
- One-year limited warranty, per Petmate
Who it suits (and who should skip it)
It suits owners who fly with a medium dog in cargo, move house long-distance, or want a solid, enclosed crate for the car. Many dogs also like it at home as a den. Before booking a flight, confirm your dog fits the airline’s sizing rule, which usually requires room to stand, turn and lie down, and ask whether the carrier wants metal hardware instead of the plastic wing nuts; some airlines and pet shippers do.
Skip it if you want a crate that folds away or gives your dog a clear view of the room. It does not collapse, and without a handle on this size it is awkward to carry when loaded.
Before a flight, get your dog used to the kennel at home over several weeks, with meals and naps inside, so the crate is familiar on travel day. Line the floor with absorbent material for long trips; if there is an accident, our guide to removing pet stains naturally covers cleaning the kennel and anything it sat on. Snub-nosed breeds face extra restrictions with many carriers, so ask about breed rules early.
Costs to know about
None required. If your airline asks for metal bolts, a hardware kit is an extra purchase.
How it compares
Compared with the MidWest Ultima Pro or the MidWest LifeStages, the Sky Kennel is a travel tool first. Wire crates fold flat and ventilate better for everyday home training; the Sky Kennel is the one to choose for flights and long drives.
Pros and cons
What we like
- IATA Live Animals Regulations compliance stated by Petmate
- Metal door and four-way ventilation
- Made in the USA from mostly recycled plastic
Watch out for
- Each airline has its own rules; approval is not guaranteed
- Plastic wing nuts; some carriers want metal hardware
- Does not fold, and no handle on this size
Our rating: 4.2/5
| Build quality | 4.2 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use | 4.0 |
| Safety & trust | 4.3 |
| Value | 4.1 |
| US & Canada availability | 4.3 |
Our rating is an editorial score based on the brand's published specs, independent reviews, safety and trust signals, value and availability in the US and Canada. It is not Amazon's customer rating, and brands do not pay for placement.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Petmate Sky Kennel airline approved?
Petmate states the kennel complies with the 2025 IATA Live Animals Regulations and meets most airline cargo specifications. But airlines set their own rules, and some add requirements for size, hardware or breed. Always confirm with the airline before you book and again before you fly.
Will my dog fit in the 32-inch Sky Kennel?
Petmate rates the 32-inch for dogs about 30 to 50 lb, with an interior of 29.5 x 19.75 x 23.5 inches. Airlines generally expect your dog to stand, turn around and lie down naturally inside, so measure your dog's height and length rather than going by weight alone.
Can I use the Sky Kennel as a home crate?
Yes. Many dogs like the enclosed, den-like feel. It does not fold, though, and a wire crate gives more airflow and visibility for everyday training. Some owners use a wire crate at home and keep the Sky Kennel for travel.
Does the Sky Kennel come with metal bolts?
Petmate lists plastic wing nuts for the Sky Kennel. Some airlines and pet shippers ask for metal hardware on cargo kennels, so check your airline's rules and buy a metal bolt kit separately if needed.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Check with your vet before changing your pet's food or adding a supplement.
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