Nature’s Kennel’s Platforms
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• MIDDLE SEPARATOR- Finally, attach the last 36” 2” x 4” twenty-four inches from the outside of the 39” 2” x 4” so that it runs from the front to the back of the platform. There should now be an opening of 26” on the platform so the barrel can rest inside of this space. • TOP- To construct the top of the platform, screw the plywood onto the side of the platform where the ladder is on the outside. Router the corners of the plywood so the chains do not get caught. To construct the barrel, cut out ½ of the front of the barrel to make an opening (this is where the dog will enter). Do not cut the opening larger than ½ of the front of the barrel as this allows for an adequate amount of straw to rest in the barrel in the winter and allows the barrel to sit into the platform. Laying the barrel on the ground, drill fifteen 1” diameter holes into side of the barrel that will be facing the ground so that moisture can drain out, the barrels can be easily washed out, and the dogs get a breeze in the summer while in their houses. Attach one 19” 2” x 4” (nametag) to the middle of the back side of the barrel. Use the line on the barrel as a guide. Place the nametag/board so it lines up just under the line if the barrel is lying so that the cut section is at the top of the barrel and the holes are at the bottom. Cut angles on the edges of the other 19” 2” x 4” so that it may fit inside the lip of the front side of the barrel to prevent the barrel from falling through the hole in the platform. Finally, slip the barrel into the hole of the platform. As finishing touches to your platform, screw an eyelet on the outside of the 50” 2” x 4” and attach a 12” chain with an s-hook. Attach an s-hook to the other end of the chain so that you can attach the stainless steel bowl to the chain. Time Spent: 1-2 hours. If everything is cut, it should take about 30 minutes. Cost: Depending on the cost of the barrel, $30-$60
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Reader Submitted Gear Mods / 2011