Introduction
There is nothing more frustrating than finding out that your dog is missing, or watching helplessly as your dog disappears around the corner after a fast escape. Some dogs are known escape artists; these dogs will tunnel under fences, scale walls, or they calculate how long a door remains open so that they can make their quick get away. Other dogs seem to escape by accident; they take off after another dog, they excitedly run out the door after their favorite person, or they leave when a gate is left open.
Prevention is the Key
There are many things that pet owners can do to help keep their dog from escaping and from falling into dangerous situations. The first part of escape prevention is to provide a secure environment. All leashes and collars should be regularly checked for frays and possible breaks; old leashes and collars should be replaced. Gates need to have secure locks, and children in the household need to be taught how to secure the gates and keep the doors closed. Baby gates in the house can also help to keep the dog away from open doors or from running out of the doors at opportune moments.
Some dogs are intent on escaping no matter what. In these instances electric fencing is an effective way to prevent escaping. This type of escape prevention tool is especially helpful for pet owners that have dogs which can climb fences or continually dig under fences. Electric fencing provides an invisible barrier that gives the dog a mild shock when he or she approaches the barrier; a collar worn by the dog activates the barrier. No other animals, or people, will be affected by the electric fencing.
In some cases dogs escape because they are bored or they need more exercise. To keep your dog from resorting to escape out of boredom, take your dog on plenty of walks, give your dog different toys to play with, or consider joining a pet park where your dog can meet and play with other dogs.