Wireless fencing is a popular solution to the perpetual fencing problem a dog-owner faces. However, since it isn't a traditional fence, many people may be concerned about its safety and effectiveness. Are you considering installing a wireless fence, but aren't sure where to start in your research?
Read on for common questions, solutions, and pros and cons so that you can finally decide how to keep your furry friend safe and contained.
Wireless fencing systems are two-fold - the first is a radio transmitter that you can install in your home; it then emits a radio signal around your house. The second part of the system is a collar your pet wears that tunes in to the radio signal.
While the signal is uninterrupted, your dog is free to roam the yard. When the collar approaches the boundary of the signal area, it warns your dog with a steady beeping sound.
If your dog pushes further into the boundary, he or she receives a light shock, which doesn't hurt so much as startle. Your dog will learn the area he's free to roam in quickly enough with the bifold warning system.
Because the fence is two fold, only the animal wearing the collar is affected by the boundary. This means that the wireless fence can't warn or shock any other animal or person that enters or exits your yard.
Wireless fencing is often much cheaper than traditional wood, metal, or plastic fencing, is easy to install and use, works for both dogs and cats, can traverse even wooded or rocky terrain where most fences could not be built, and keeps your fur babies from running through the neighborhood.
It also allows your pet to feel less confined, as they can see far into the distance rather than have their view obstructed by a tall fence. This will help your pup quell any claustrophobia or anxiety caused by being contained in small spaces, and may even help them exercise more efficiently in the confines of your yard.
With this option you will not need to consult your homeowner's association or city before installing your fence, you won't unknowingly violate zoning laws in your area, and will preserve the aesthetic of your yard and home.
Many pet parents discover that training a pet to adapt to its new fence can be difficult and time consuming. For those who commute to work, or stay-at-home parents who have families and chores to look after, the amount of time needed to help the fence do its job may be a major drawback.
Wireless fencing also doesn't protect your pet from other animals or people. Since your dog or cat is the only one wearing the collar, an aggressive neighborhood dog that's always on the loose can easily get to your pet, as well as any individual who may try to snatch up the pup. Such possibilities should be considered when purchasing a wireless fence. Aggressive animals or pup-nappers aren't the only worry, however. If your pet isn't spayed or neutered, you could become a pup grandparent before long!
Pet owners also may dislike the idea of shocking their pet to keep them in their yards. Even if wireless fencing just startles rather than electrocutes, no one wants to see someone they love in distress.
Most wireless fencing setups cost well below $1000 once all is accounted for. The collar and invisible wiring cost around $50 each, and all-in-one packages can range between $100 and $400. Chargers may run anywhere from $50 to $300.
Keep in mind that the estimated price is if you do the installation yourself! Contractor charges vary wildly, so it's best to get a quote if you're depending on someone else to set it up for you.
Before you install your new equipment, it's essential to read the warnings and recommendations as well as the complete set of instructions for setup. This will ensure that your experience is as safe and effective as possible, as well as keep you from losing any parts or accidentally hurting yourself in the process.
Each type of fence will vary in installation, so it's always best to follow the instructions that came with your particular model of fence. No general instructional aid can substitute for the directions that came in the box, so if you've lost or damaged the instructions that the manufacturer sent you can always contact them for another.
Training your pet to accept the virtual fence can take up to two weeks. As with any type of training, it's essential to remain patient and stay consistent while working with your pet as they adapt to the new equipment.
Remember that your dog can't immediately understand your expectations or what the fence means, but will learn in time. It's important to treat them like the member of your family that they are while they get used to their environment.
With the above information you're one step closer to choosing a fence for your pet! While the pros and cons may be a little confusing, it's important to consider all the above when deciding how to protect your fur baby. If you've got a larger spayed/neutered animal in a safe neighborhood, they should be protected from most dangers that could present themselves to the unfenced dog.
On the other hand, a physical border between a small dog or cat could be the best idea for a creature in a dangerous environment, like on the side of a busy thoroughfare or where other, more vicious animals could have their way. However, in the end, the choice of a fence for you and your pet is a highly personal one, and articles like this might make the task of deciding just that much easier.
