CAREE: Why It's One of the Safest Travel Crates for Small Dogs and Cats

Why is the CAREE so safe?

Because it is one of the few travel crates TÜV certified for the vehicle seat – and it holds up in a crash test. The CAREE was developed by Swiss engineers specifically for the passenger compartment and certified by TÜV SÜD to the ECE-R17 standard. It is fixed to the seat with the seat belt and, optionally, with ISOFIX/LATCH – anchored exactly where simple crates often fail.

Where is the safest place for the crate in the car?

The safest spot is the footwell behind the front seats, or firmly attached to the seat. ADAC crash tests show that loosely placed crates turn into projectiles in a collision, endangering both passengers and pet. The CAREE is built to be firmly connected to the seat – on the back seat, and often on the front passenger seat too.

Isn't a belted plastic crate enough?

Often, no. In ADAC crash tests, standard belted plastic crates broke at 50 km/h: the grille door and lid failed under the load, and the crate – with the animal inside – could be thrown through the car. The difference lies in the material and the tested fixing: a crate must be tested as a system, not just „belted in".

Edited with AI

What exactly was tested on the CAREE?

More than a single impact. TÜV SÜD certified the CAREE to ECE-R17 (certificate Z1B 029106 0022). Testing included a sled test at 50 km/h plus a run over the Belgian block test track at 25 km/h. Throughout, the crate must not slip, deform or have its door open.

Up to what weight – and with or without ISOFIX?

Up to 8 kg with the seat belt, up to 15 kg with the ISOFIX/LATCH set. That makes the CAREE suitable for cats and small dogs. ISOFIX connects the crate even more firmly to the body of the car and so raises the permitted weight.

Which features make everyday use safe and simple?

Practical in the details, safe as a whole. The CAREE offers:

• Integrated seat-belt guides for quick, correct fixing.
• Optional ISOFIX/LATCH set for maximum hold.
• Two-way front door that opens from both sides.
• Adaptable back that adjusts to the shape of the seat back.
• Compact dimensions of around 47 × 47 × 57 cm (W/H/D).

To find the crate that fits your animal and car, use the Box Finder – by weight, breed or car. More about the crate itself is on the CAREE product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CAREE TÜV certified?

Yes, by TÜV SÜD to ECE-R17 (certificate Z1B 029106 0022) – including a 50 km/h sled test and a Belgian block road test.

Which animals is the CAREE suitable for?

Cats and small dogs – up to 8 kg with the seat belt, up to 15 kg with ISOFIX.

Where do I place the crate most safely in the car?

Firmly on the seat secured with the belt or ISOFIX.

Do I have to use ISOFIX?

No. With the seat belt the CAREE is approved up to 8 kg; ISOFIX adds hold and allows up to 15 kg.

Why isn't an ordinary plastic crate enough?

In crash tests, simple crates break at 50 km/h. A certified, firmly fixed crate like the CAREE keeps the animal and the crate in place.