Why is it wasting? If it buys the owners peace of mind, that's money well spent, even if the price tag is high.

Now keep in mind that even my separation anxious dog (she is, according to one of my vets, the "definition of neurotic") gets the barebones kennel when she gets boarded. I'm not saying it's exorbitant -- just not a complete waste. It's doing no harm and some good, so what's the problem?