I recommend crates for use in the car and as a bed at home. I do not approve of exposing our babies to public areas where lots of other dogs relieve themselves. This includes floors in pet stores, dog show exercise areas and the floor at the veterinarian’s office. Use of a carrier or holding them yourself prevents exposure to multiple germs, bacteria, and parasites. Also, in the car, a crate serves for protection just as we use seat belts and car seat; our fur babies also deserve protection and they are much safer in a strapped in crate in the event of an automobile accident.