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dog fence most reliable hidden fence worldwide

So what’s the difference between a freedom fence and a dog fence?

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So you’ve done a bit of googling and come across a few options for  keeping your dog at home. An electronic dog fence, freedom fence or a containment fence. So where do you start.

How do you know what the differences are if you don’t know how a freedom fence works?

How does a freedom fence work?

Well, they are all derived from the same principle. A radio transmitter is installed on the owners property and connected to a boundary wire that carries a radio signal. The signal has to start and finish at the transmitter.

The pet wears a radio receiver which is programmed to pick up the radio signal. When the pet enters the signal area (“no go zone”) the receiver collar emits a warning beep, followed by a static impulse (static shock). With some training the pet quickly learns where the no go area is and stays within the boundary.

dog fence training flags

Visible boundary for the pet with flags.

The boundary should always be marked with training flags when the dog is in the training phase to give the dog a visual for the “no go zone”.

What are the differences between Freedom Fences and Dog Fences?

Answer: Technology & Speed

A Freedom Fence is actually a product called PetSafe Professional; it uses a technology which is over 25 years old. All PetSafe systems use a digital AM radio frequency.

Why is an old technology an issue? In simple terms the system will work but it could do better! Dogs can cats are precious to owners and most want to ensure that they are using the latest and safest products available.

Why is an AM fence inferior?

The issue with the AM frequency is it is prone to false activation (house electronics other than the freedom fence system can activate the pet’s collar when they are not in the “no go area”).

This is confusing for the pet as consistency is the key when it comes to electronic pet containment. In order to reduce the chances of a false activation the Freedom Fence collar checks for 2 x signals. Naturally, this slows the reaction time down on the collar.

dog fence is faster than freedom fence - dachshund running

Catch that pigeon!

The Dog Fence system is another name for a DogWatch Hidden Fence. It uses a newer digital FM signal (DAB). The FM signal is more secure and cannot be activated by any other signal.

It goes without saying that this guarantees the safety of the pet.

The dog fence system only checks for one x signal. This makes the collar reaction time quicker – 15 times quicker! So when your dog is chasing a squirrel the dog fence is 15 times quicker at stopping him than the freedom fence system.

What does reaction time mean?

The reaction time is crucial for both the start up and shut down on the collar. For example if your dog was running at 10 mph with the Dog Fence system he would only get 0.125ft into the zone before the collar has activated. Whereas if the dog was wearing a freedom fence collar he could potentially go 7ft into the zone before activation.

Conversely, if the dog makes the right decision and retreats back into the garden the shut down on the collar is virtually instant (less than a second) for the Dog Fence whereas it will be between 2 – 5 seconds for the freedom fence collar.

This is called response hang on time. It is important that the dog is not “corrected” when they are in the safe zone – the safe zone should be safe. This could be the difference between the dog staying in or running out.

Quality & Warranty

Originally the Freedom systems were manufactured in the USA but approx 10 years ago the PetSafe manufacturing was moved to China. The Freedom Fence is supplied with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and does not include the following malfunctions:

  • Lightning strikes/electrical surges – Transmitter not warranted if lightning or power surge damage the transmitter.
  • Dog chews – if the pet chews the receiver this is not covered by the warranty.
  • Accidental damage – if the dog damages the receiver this is not covered by the warranty.
  • Limited life warranty – 3 years.

All the Dog Fence systems are thoroughly tested before leaving the DogWatch HQ in Boston. Each unit is individually tested and receives a unique identification number. This ensures quality and consistency. People of often suprised to learn that the following items are all covered under the Dog Fence warranty;

dog chew on dog fence receiver collar

Covered by Dog Fence Warranty

  • Lightning strikes & surges (surge box supplied as standard) – transmitter is fully covered even with the surge fitted – repair or replacement sent.
  • Dog chews – if the pet chews the receiver this is covered under the warranty – repair or replacement sent.
  • Accidental damage – because dogs will be dogs so we expect our receivers to be tough and durable – repair or replacement sent.
  • Lifetime warranty

Battery Life

The freedom fence collars use 2 x 3.0 volt batteries which last approx 3 – 4 months in the collar.

The Dog Fence system collars offer a choice of 2 x collars.

  • Mini Collar – 1 x 3.0 volt battery every 6 months
  • Standard Collar – 1 x 3.6 volt battery every 18 – 24 months.

Receiver Collar Size and Weight

cat in bird bath wearing dog fence collar

Lazing on a sunny afternoon

If you have a very small dog or a cat then the Dog Fence system cannot be beaten on either weight or size. Our mini receiver collars are the smallest available worldwide and weigh in at only 30g even with the battery fitted. Our standard collar weighs in at only 48g which compares to 54g on the Freedom Fence model.

Boundary Wire

The boundary wire is important with all containment fences as this is the part that conducts the radio signal. The quality of your boundary wire will depend on which PetSafe system you purchase.

As a general rule the Freedom Fence systems are supplied with a 1.5mm wire. The dog fence systems offer 2 grades of wire either 2.5mm as the heavy grade or 4mm as the premium grade wire. As the wire is buried in the ground the heavier the wire the more durable and less likely the cable is to be damaged.

Professional Installation

Both Freedom Fence and Dog Fence offer professional installation, however, there is a difference to the level of service offered by each Company due to the employment status of the staff.

  • Dog Fence staff – all trained and employed by Dog Fence – every installer has fully equipped van inc cable burial trencher and wire detection system. – All staff IACP approved.
  • Dog Fence also have a dedicated cat fence team – www.catfence.co.uk as the training for cats is very different to dogs.
  • Freedom Fence Staff – trained by Freedom fence but working on a sub-contract basis – not full time employment. Only some installers have trenching equipment.

New Technology comes to Dog Fence

From November 2018 Dog Fence will be the first UK Company to offer a two-way communication on a containment system. Our new smart fence will feed information back to a base station via an app. You will be able to monitor your dog’s movements as well as the technical info for the system. Learn more here…. 

Containment fences have been used for over 40 years to keep dogs and cats safe. The owners of DogFence Ltd realized many years ago that there was a requirement for a complete all around service and pioneered the concept of full installation and training for dogs and cats. To learn more about our products and services call us for a quick no obligation quote or fill in our quote form. 03450 623623 https://dogfence.co.uk/quote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

containment fence lets dog run free in field

Dog fences are NOT banned!

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Dog fences & Cat fences are not banned!

After the government bought containment fences to a public consultation, it was decided that Dog fences are NOT banned. This landmark decision also has had a positive impact for all you cat lovers – Cat fences are not banned either! Given the statics of cats that are injured and killed on the UK’s roads each year this is fantastic decision. Farmers are also relieved that dog fences (aka containment fences) are exempt from the proposed e-collar ban as livestock attacks are on the increase.

So what is a Dog fence?

A dog fence is a hidden fence that will give your pets freedom in their own garden. As pet owners, it gives you peace-of-mind knowing your pet is not escaping, chasing livestock or getting onto the roads. It works silently, invisibly 24/7 covering all boundaries including driveways and open areas. Dog fences have been around for over 40 years but the modern systems are often maligned without people really understanding how they work.

How do Containment fences work?

dog fence wire layout, cat fence wire layout

Typical boundary wire layout for dog fence

A central control box is connected to a boundary wire that usually runs around the perimeter of the property. The control box sends a coded radio signal through the boundary wire that has been laid around the property. The size of the signal emitted by the control box can be enlarged or reduced according to the customers’ requirements.

The collar that your pet wears, houses a tiny FM receiver, as the pet moves towards the signal the collar emits an audible signal to indicate to stop. If the pet continues towards the wire the collar gives a small “corrective impulse” set to the pet’s individual requirements. To some this idea is unthinkable but the impulse is akin to a static shock that you might get if you touch a door knob. When considering a cat fences the containment fences are the only option for giving cats complete freedom and safety in one package.

Why is it so important that Containment fences are not Banned?

With Dog’s & Cats accounting for 16% of reported animal deaths on major roads in the UK over the past 24 months, it is more important than ever to keep your pets safe at home. With over 80% of the people surveyed admitting that they would swerve to avoid hitting a Dog, the question would then be – By swerving what others accidents could this cause? Nobody wants to see Dogs killed on our roads and this is why the message of “Dog fences are not banned” is critical.

And its not just the roads which will be a safer place – Farmers around the UK are also celebrating. Dogs form a critical function on the farms, including companionship, protection and the herding of animals. Just as important though – properties that border the farms with livestock generally use these containment fences to stop the dogs entering the fields and attacking the livestock.

Containment fences are NOT banned! Why Not?

The Consultation lasted 6 weeks ending in April’18 and it was clear that banning containment fences would be a mistake. The public spoke and Over 64% of all the responses received were in favour of retaining Containment fences. The study by Lincoln University which was published in 2016 gave cat fences a positive thumbs up.

In a letter from DEFRA dated February’18 (Before the announcement of the consultation) it was stated:

“The evidence from the studies was not strong enough to support a ban on the devices under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The claim that electronic training aids may be no more effective than other training methods is not in itself a reason to introduce a ban or to impose restrictions on their use. Having said that, our advice is that electronic training aids should only be used as a last resort and on the recommendation of a professional such as a vet, a suitably qualified dog behaviourist, or a dog trainer, and should only be used by competent operators.”

If nothing else the consultation into the use of containment fences has proved that they are a valuable and effective system with thousands of owners submitting stories of how the dog fence or cat fence had saved their pets life.

Where can I find out more about Dog fences?

dog fence van, cat fence van

Dog Fence Team ready for action!

Dogfence Ltd are the only recognised installers of containment fences in the UK that supply, install and train your pets. If you would like more information about the system and the costs call us on (01628) 476475 or click here. 

Electric dog fences will give keep dogs free to run

Are electric dog fences legal?

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Are electric dog fences legal?

So you’ve read the recent media reports and are confused about whether electric dog fences are legal. If you are concerned about your pet’s safety and want to use an electric dog fence read on …..

 

 

 

 

 

The good news is if you are considering installing an electric dog fence they are completely Legal to use in England. Our dogs and cats can have their freedom and safety!

In March 2018 the Government launched a consultation into the use of all electronic dog and cat collars.  Over a 6 week consultation period 7000+ people responded. Interestingly, the majority of people (64%) were opposed to a ban. The Government looked at the evidence and the  research for both the hand held units (aka remote training collars) and containment fences (aka electric dog fences). In August the Government announced that they would not ban invisible dog fence systems. They went on to state that these fence systems offer safety to pets.

Are there any regulations for installing a electric dog fence?

After considering the evidence the Government noted that in the interests of pet welfare containment fences must be Professionally installed. They . From Autumn 2018 all containment fences will have to be professionally installed with onsite training for the cat or dog.

What do I get with Professional Installation?

So what does Professional Installation give the customer? Firstly extensive knowledge as well as advise and a good standard of product. Companies that offer full installation will have correctly trained their operatives. The operatives will be trained to  know where to place the wire and how to correctly train the pet. These Companies will have also researched the best products in terms of durability and safety. If a product is constantly breaking down due to poor quality of wire or hardware it will leave the pet vulnerable.

When installing an electric dog fence correct placement of the cable is crucial. Ideally the cable will be buried to avoid damage. In situations where burial is not possible the Installer will find a safe position above the ground.  The product sold should have in-built safety features to protect the pet. This will include automatic shutdowns, a low battery warning and a good long battery life.  It is important to consider that if the battery runs out the pet could run out! When installing the cable advice should be given on areas to avoid and where possible the cable should follow natural boundaries.

Once the fence has been installed the Professional should train the cat or the dog for the owner. Ongoing  guidance and support should be part of the service.  A reputable Installation Company should keep records of the pets individual requirements and offer a follow up service for the future.

How do I know if I am getting a Professional Installation?

Companies that offer full installation will have a proven track record  so it will be easy to ask for references and check reviews. They should also offer installation using the trenching equipment and post installation service. Using a one man band or sub-contractor may not meet the Professional Installation regulations require. Due to the high cost of the installation equipment it is unlikely that these individuals will have access to correct installation tools and are most likely not trained. Furthermore a reputable installation Company will usually offer a good guarantee regarding their product and service.

Intrigued and want to learn more? call us on:  03450 623 623 or email us on: info@dogfence.co.uk today.

https://dogfence.co.uk/quote/