It’s no secret that pets love to wander. Whether they’re chasing a squirrel or following their nose to something interesting, it’s important to keep an eye on them so they don’t end up in places they’re not supposed to be. And while most pet owners are diligent in keeping their furry friends contained within the boundaries of their property, there will always be those who let their guard down and allow their pets to roam free – sometimes with disastrous consequences. There are also those pets that are simply escape artists, and no matter how hard their owners try to keep them contained, they always find a way out. If you’re struggling to keep your pet from snooping around the neighborhood, here are a few tips to help you out.
Invest in a Smart GPS Collar
There are a variety of GPS collars on the market that can help you keep track of your pet’s whereabouts. As explained by the folks from Halo Collar, these collars typically come with an app that allows you to see your pet’s location in real-time, set up virtual fences, and receive alerts if they leave a designated area. Some collars even have features like activity tracking and the ability to send voice commands to your pet. While GPS collars can be a bit pricey, they’re definitely worth the investment if you have a pet that likes to wander. So if you are looking for a comprehensive solution to keep your pet safe, a GPS collar is the way to go.
Keep Your Yard Secure
Another good solution you should implement whether you are using a GPS collar or not is to simply make sure your yard is secure. This means ensuring that there are no gaps in your fence that your pet can squeeze through and making sure gates are latched shut at all times. You might also want to consider adding some type of barrier around the perimeter of your property, such as a hedge or row of shrubs. This will make it more difficult for your pet to wander off your property unnoticed. Just be sure to choose plants that are non-toxic to pets in case they decide to take a nibble.
Supervise Your Pet When They’re Outside
If you can’t or don’t want to put a fence around your property, the next best thing is to simply keep a close eye on your pet when they’re outside. This means not letting them out of your sight and keeping them on a leash if they’re prone to wander. If you have to leave them alone for a short period, make sure they’re in a secure area, such as a fenced-in yard or dog run. And if you know you won’t be able to keep an eye on them for an extended period, it’s best to just keep them inside.
Keep Your Pet Busy
A bored pet is more likely to wander off in search of excitement. So, it’s important to keep your pet entertained with activities that will keep their mind and body busy. This might include playing fetch, going for walks or runs, participating in agility training, or playing with interactive toys. The key is to find activities that your pet enjoys and make sure they’re getting enough physical and mental stimulation daily. If you can keep your pet happy and occupied, they’re less likely to feel the need to wander off in search of adventure.
Work With a Trainer
If you’ve tried all of the above and your pet is still escaping or snooping around the neighborhood, it might be time to seek professional help. A qualified animal behaviorist or trainer can assess your pet’s behavior and provide you with specific tips and guidance on how to change it. They can also help you identify any underlying issues that might be causing your pet to act out. While working with a trainer can be expensive, it’s often worth the investment if you’re struggling to keep your pet safe and contained.
In Conclusion
While it’s impossible to completely prevent a pet from escaping or roaming, these steps should help you minimize the chances of it happening. Just remember to be patient and consistent with your pet, and you should see some positive results over time.
