Pet Fence Problems

Traditional fences and fences specifically designed for pet containment are ways to keep domestic animals confined to a limited area, such as a front or back yard. However, fences must be operated properly in order to be effective, and even a comprehensive containment system might not be a match for a pet determined to escape.

  1. Types

    • Pets who spend a significant amount of time outdoors can be confined to an established space by traditional fences or special electronic fences. Electronic pet fences fall into two main categories: ones in which the boundary is set by an underground wire connected at both ends to a transmitter kept inside the house or garage, and ones in which a wireless transmitter emits a signal that establishes a circular boundary with the transmitter at its center.

    Function

    • Traditional fences can contain pets as long as owners are diligent about making sure the gate is kept closed and animals can't escape over, under or through gaps in the fence. Electronic pet containment systems work in combination with a special collar the pet wears. The collar gives a warning beep if the pet approaches an invisible boundary and a mild electric shock if he tries to cross it.

    Benefits

    • An electronic pet containment system provides a continuous, unbroken pet barrier that does not affect humans in any way. It does not alter the appearance of a yard and can be used in combination with any traditional fence.

    Considerations

    • The special collar can't be worn continuously, as the interior metal prongs that administer the electric shocks will irritate an animal's skin after prolonged exposure. In order for an electronic pet containment system to be effective, the pet must be conditioned to respond to the signals provided by the collar. An improperly trained animal might not learn to associate the warning beeps and electric shocks with the boundary of the yard, and thus the fence will be useless.

      Training is no guarantee of success: A determined animal might choose to cross the boundary despite receiving an electric shock. If this happens, she might be disinclined to return to the yard, knowing she'll receive another electric shock upon crossing the boundary again. In a fence established by an underground wire, the fence will not work if any part of the loop formed by the wire and the transmitter is broken. The wire or transmitter could be damaged by prolonged exposure to rough weather, which might limit its ability to function.

    Warning

    • Electronic fences might be prohibited by a city's municipal code. An animal with an aggressive nature or an inclination to bite should be contained by some other means, as electric fences do not prevent people from entering the yard and approaching the pet.