Wireless Dog Fences in a Wireless World

With WIFI, we send messages across the world with a single push of a button.  It's not surprising that there are wireless methods to train our dogs.  In fact, wireless dog fences have been around for quite some time.  They have been and will continue to be a topic of debate, but no matter what side of the fence you fall on, there is no doubt that they are effective.

Nowadays, electric and wireless dog fences are more advanced than ever and feature some excellent safety features.  The PetSafe® Wireless Fence was the first and still the most trustworthy of all of the wireless pet fences available today.  Others are making a move and starting to incorporate the latest technology. The Perimeter WiFi Wireless Fence is one of those that is making a move by not only being wireless, but WIFI.

A wireless dog fence is preferable to having an expensive fence that he learns to burrow under. If you have a dog that likes to dig a wireless fence is definitely the way to go!  In locations where high fences are looked upon as unfriendly or where they are not allowed the wireless containment system is a great option. If you live in a condo, dogs may be permitted, but putting up your own fence may not be an option. The use of a wireless fence poses no threat to other animals or to children. It is only effective when the battery collar is worn by your dog.

Maintenance consists of making sure that the transmitter is plugged into the power supply and that the battery in the collar is charged when in use. The battery will run low if used over long periods of time; therefore, it is wise to have an extra one handy at all times. This containment system is much simpler and less costly than a fence that needs to be painted every few years.

Introducing your dog to the wireless fence does require some effort on your part. Your pet needs to learn what is expected of him and what the consequences are for disobeying. A detailed instruction manual will come with your kit. Take the time to read it first and learn how to use it before placing the collar on your pet. With a small animal or one that has very little neck hair, the shock will need to be of very little intensity. With any pet, you will want to start out on the lowest setting and then adjust to a higher setting, if needed. Walking your dog around the boundary line with the collar on but no battery and telling him “back,” “stop,” or some other command to let him know you do not want him to proceed any further needs to be done several times before actual use. You need to make it very clear to your dog what is expected of him.

Approved Airline Dog Crates and Carriers

There are many airline approved dog crates and carriers available today.  Choosing one that suits your needs and your pet can be challenging.  Some of the things I like to consider when looking to travel are the size of the pet and any special needs he or she may have.

Having a small pet has it’s advantages in that you can choose an airline approved carrier bag that can be checked as a carry-on and have your pet with you for the entire flying experience. The carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you with the exact size dependent upon which airline you choose to fly with. Before your flight check with the particular airline you will be using to obtain the exact size and type of crate that is allowed. Nothing is worse than not doing your homework and arriving at the check-in only to be told your carrier is too large and you will need to purchase a smaller one to allow your pet to travel on-board.

Functional airline approved pet carriers are available for the small dog and have breathable mesh or netting for the safety of your small pet. These still need to be able to fit under the passenger seat in front of you. After take-off, you may want to let him have a small drink of water or a toy to chew on, but remember that most airlines do not allow your pet outside the carrier during the flight. These small considerations can be instrumental in keeping your pet quiet and content during the flight.

When you are transporting a larger pet; it will be necessary to check it in with the baggage area. There are many larger airline approved dog crates available designed especially for this purpose. I cannot stress enough, however, to check first with the airline you will be using to obtain the dimensions and style of carrier allowed as this does vary some from one airline to another. Even though your pet will be in the baggage department, the baggage compartment is pressurized and kept at a comfortable temperature.  They usually do very well with the flight and are safely taken to an animal holding facility located close to where you will be arriving, for your immediate pick-up after landing.

The carriers and crates designed for air travel all have the safety and comfort of your animal as their main concern. No matter how well they have been designed, it is up to you to make sure your pet can stand, turn around and lie down free from sharp edges or objects. Before boarding; a trip to a place where he can relieve himself is of utmost importance. Nothing is more uncomfortable than trying to hold back bodily functions for an extended period of time.

Some limitations are in place with regards to flying with your dog making it important for you to check all the rules and regulations for the transport of your pet detailed by the particular airline you will be using. Each airline has a few different rules and regulations so if you are unclear on any point – call the airline and check directly with them.

Be sure to choose a dog carrier or dog crate that is airline approved and follow through on learning the rules and regulations.