Invisible Fences: Do or Don't?

As you’re probably aware, our canine companions love to run and play outside. The vast majority of dogs will both enjoy and also benefit from having a fenced-in yard. If you’re looking at installing fencing so your pup can have an outdoor space to play, you may be wondering about invisible fences. A Mattoon vet lists some things to consider below.

P  ros

Invisible fences do present some appealing benefits. One of the biggest selling points is their affordability. If you live in an HOA, you may also be spared the hassle of making sure your fence is up to code, though this of course will vary, depending on the HOA. Invisible fences can also be used on any type of terrain, and are quick and easy to install. Last but not least, because they are invisible, they won’t obstruct your views.

Cons

There are also a few downsides to invisible fences. For one, these devices are definitely not ‘plug and play.’ You’ll need to train your pet where the fence is, which means taking time to walk him along the perimeter. Most manufacturers offer directions on this, and some will even work with you directly. This is something to consider when shopping. Another thing to consider is that even if the fence keeps your dog in, it won’t keep the neighbor’s dog—or any other animals—out. Reliability can be another issue. If power is disrupted, for example, your fence goes down as well. Finally, these fences can make some dogs uncomfortable. Fido may get confused or agitated. And some dogs will simply ignore the fence and bolt through anyway.

Tips

While these are some general pros and cons, it’s also important to consider your dog’s temperament and personality. If you have an active breed that is pretty likely to run, such as a husky, an invisible fence may not be the best option. Generally, they are likely to work best in quiet areas, and with dogs that will probably stick close to home anyway. It’s also important to realize that some of the pros we listed can become cons. For instance, an invisible fence won’t offer you the privacy that another type of fence would. It’s probably safe to say that physical fences are the better choice in most situations. However, ask your Mattoon vet for specific advice.

Call us, your Mattoon veterinary clinic, today! We are here to help!