Spotting Trouble: How to Identify Weakness in Your Dog Fence
As per the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 710,000 dogs in the United States find themselves in shelters, with only a limited portion successfully reunited with their owners. This figure accounts for just a fraction of the 3.1 million dogs that are admitted to animal shelters.
Certain dogs may stray when exposed to loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, or when unsuspecting individuals mistakenly assume they are strays. Others may become lost while exploring wooded areas. Regardless of the circumstances, a lost dog is the ultimate fear for any pet owner.
To ensure your dog's safety, it's crucial to ensure that your fence is secure. Regular weekly inspections can help identify any potential problem areas that could allow your dog to escape. Here's a guide on how to check your dog fence for potential weaknesses:
If Your Pooch is a High Jumper
If your furry friend has a knack for leaping to great heights, say five or six feet, there's a risk they could vault over your fence, especially if your yard features a slope that could aid their momentum.
Traditional wooden or chain-link fences can inadvertently aid in their escape, as these types of fences can be used like a ladder by your adventurous pet. However, an Easy Pet Fence circumvents this problem due to its flexible nature and the fact that it can be easily moved or taken down.
Wide Gaps in the Fence
Many homeowners love the classic appeal of wrought iron fences. However, these types of fences often have wide gaps that can pose a problem for pet owners. The gaps can be large enough for adventurous dogs to squeeze through, leading to potential escapes or injuries.
Fortunately, there's a practical solution to this issue: Easy Pet Fence's Wide Gap Dog Barrier. This product is specifically designed to address the wide gap problem in fences, providing an additional layer of security for your pets. With this barrier, you can enjoy the beauty of your wrought iron fence without worrying about your dog's safety. It's a simple, effective solution to a common problem faced by many pet owners.
Your Dog Loves to Dig
If your dog enjoys digging near the fence, they might escape before you know it. Regular inspections for holes along the fence perimeter can help prevent this issue. You can also consider placing steel hex or other barriers at the bottom of the fence to prevent your dog from digging under it.
To distract your dog from digging near the fence, consider building a sandbox filled with toys and nylon bones. This will give your dog a fun activity while satisfying their urge to dig.
Objects Near Your Fence
Many pet owners inadvertently facilitate their pets' escape by overlooking a simple aspect of their yard: furniture and trees near the fence. These objects can serve as launching pads for your adventurous pet, allowing them to easily scale the fence and escape.
It's essential to evaluate your yard from your pet's perspective. Look for potential stepping stones like garden furniture, tree stumps, or even large plant pots that are within close proximity to the fence. Similarly, trees with branches hanging over the fence can provide an easy route for your pet to climb over.
To ensure your pet's safety, consider relocating these items to a safer distance away from your fence, ideally in the center of the yard. For trees, regular pruning of overhanging branches can help prevent your dog from using them as a springboard to freedom.
Damages Caused by a Storm
After a storm, always check your fence for damage. Fallen trees or branches can damage a section of fencing. With Easy Pet Fence, even if a tree falls on it, the fence mesh can be easily repaired and replaced after the tree is removed. Even if there are no visible signs of fallen trees or branches, it is important to thoroughly inspect the entire fence line and physically assess its condition. Strong gusts of wind may have caused damage to fence posts or loosened boards. Prioritize fixing any issues promptly to prevent your dog from escaping.
Decayed and Rotten Posts
Wooden fences typically have their posts driven into the ground, which inevitably exposes them to water year-round. As a result, the wood gradually deteriorates over time. While a treated pine post can last 20 years or longer, some pet owners are hesitant to use them due to the risk of poisoning if their furry companions decide to chew on them. On the other hand, untreated pine posts may not even withstand the test of time.
Thankfully, Easy Pet Fence has the best answer: Powder-coated Galvanized Steel Posts. They are highly durable and can withstand any weather conditions without rusting. As a result, they are the top choice for dog fencing.
Chewing Habits
Certain dogs have an affinity for chewing. If you happen to possess a wooden fence, there is a possibility that your furry friend might nibble through a section of a slat. Consequently, a hole will manifest, just large enough for them to squeeze through. Fixing this problem not only takes time but more money as well.
At Easy Pet Fence, we have many chew-resistant fence options to choose from. Our coated steel wire can withstand biting and chewing. Additionally, it can be layered with additional fencing to prevent even the most persistent chewers.
Underground Fencing Concerns
For those who prefer underground fencing, it's important to regularly check for breaks, especially after any digging activities in the yard. If you find any, ensure they're fixed immediately.
Easy Pet Fence stands up to all types of escape artists - jumpers, chewers, diggers, and gap slippers. With a dig-proof barrier at the bottom and continuous, gap-free design, this fencing offers a variety of options and solutions to stop chewers or climbers, providing a secure and humane fence for your pet's safety. Our DIY fence kit has everything you require for your fence, from dig-proof posts and gates to tools and fencing. Visit Easy Pet Fence to get your free quote today or call our fence experts for a consultation.