6 tips on pet fencing

As your pets run around your property, chasing whatever catches their attention, you want to ensure they are safe, especially from busy traffic.

With electronic pet fencing, you can keep pets contained while, at the same time, allowing them to explore their territory. The system is designed to give your pets the boundaries needed to stay in a specific area on your acreage.

Most fencing systems are designed to work with dogs. Multiple pets can be placed on the same system, but each pet needs its own customized, computerized collar.

Whatever your fencing needs, consider these tips before buying a system.

1. Know the equipment you need

A system typically consists of boundary wire, a transmitter, a receiver (attached to pet's collar), a test light, training flags, and a sign. The wire is buried around the perimeter of your property, establishing your pet's boundary. A transmitter sends a radio signal along wire buried underground. The signal is picked up by your pet's receiver collar, which emits a warning sound when it approaches the invisible boundary.

2. Train your pet

Once installed, your pet will need to understand how the system works. Each pet is equipped with a receiver collar. The collar may be uncomfortable, but it won't hurt your pet. The correction from a collar is similar to the sensation felt when you walk across a carpet and touch a metal door knob.

Training usually takes between two to three weeks. If you will be training a puppy, it's best to begin training when it is between 4 and 6 months old.

Many fencing companies offer training as part of the installation package.

3. Check the system regularly

In order for the system to run properly, you should check it on a regular basis. The boundary wire should be inspected to ensure it is intact and has power. Several models come equipped with lights or sound to alert you when there is a problem with wire or power.

Regularly test the battery in the dog's collar to be sure it is functioning.

4. Move the system

If you should move, take the transmitter and collar. A new boundary wire will have to be installed.

5. Compare costs

The cost of an electronic pet fencing system will depend on the size of the boundary area and the number of animals you have on the system.

Average costs can range anywhere from $695 to $2,195.

6. Ask a professional

Consult with an electronic pet fencing professional to specifically design a system that meet the needs of your acreage and your pets. !

Learn more

DogWatch, Inc.
Phone: 800/793-3436
Web: www.dogwatch.com

Invisible Fence
Phone: 800/578-DOGS
Web: www.invisiblefence.com

PetSafe
Phone: 800/732-2677
Web: www.petsafe.net

Photograph: Laurie Potter