Invisible fencing to create pet-friendly spaces

Once upon a time, a sturdy fence around the quarter acre block was all that was needed to contain the family pets but changes in lifestyles and how we set up home have created new issues regarding pet ownership and the best ways to keep them out of harm's way.

How does virtual pet fencing work?

Virtual fencing is a radio controlled containment system that is installed in the ground. The system is weather proof, invisible and operates with the use of magnetic fields. Your pets wear the collars and when in operation, the system communicates the no go areas to your pets via a combination of mild sensation plus an audible beep conveyed to your pet via the collar.

Your pet can be trained to recognise the "fence" very easily and with the use of visual aids like flags or other garden features placed at specific points in your yard, your pets will soon recognise their limits before they even get close enough to trigger the warning beep or the mild physical sensation that follows. Virtual fencing is humane and will not cause your pet any distress either.

These systems can be used with confidence for cats too so you can safely allow puss outside to play knowing he'll remain in the yard, as opposed to roaming all over the neighbourhood.

Setting up your virtual pet fence

Your supplier can do this for you but most systems are quick and easy to install and can be done by most people with a bit of DIY know-how. The systems are flexible too, allowing for whichever type of layout best suits your needs.

The size of containment areas is flexible as well and with additional wire you can "fence" areas of up to five acres, if necessary, so you can really give Fido and Moggie plenty of space if you wish. Mainly though, it allows you to designate pet-friendly areas around your yard without sacrificing the visual appeal of your property.

The advantages of virtual fencing

Inevitably, there will be areas on your property where you don't want your dog or cat to go but you don't want to visibly break up your yard into fenced plots and this is where a more discreet fencing system is an excellent choice for marking out the boundaries. The advantages of using one of these systems are:

• The systems are very reliable
• You can prevent your pet from getting into the gardens or the pool areas
• They are quick and easy to install
• They will keep your pets clear of front gates and other access points to your property
• They prevent your pets from leaving your property

Even the most determined escapee can be safely contained with these systems as they cannot be chewed through, jumped over or dug under and, most importantly, they will not harm your pet.

It's safe, secure and well worth looking into.