Fencing for Pets: A Fence Company’s Guide to Safe and Happy Yards
This comprehensive guide covers what you need to know about fencing for pets.
Your pets are family, and keeping them safe within your yard is a top priority. The right fencing solution protects your pets, provides them with the freedom to play, and gives you peace of mind. However, choosing and installing pet-friendly fencing involves careful planning and understanding your pets specific needs.A professional fence company can help design and install a fence that keeps your furry companions safe while enhancing your propertys appearance and functionality.
Why Pet-Friendly Fencing Matters
Without proper fencing, pets are at risk of:
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Running away or getting lost
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Injuries from escaping under or over fences
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Conflicts with wildlife or neighboring animals
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Accidental road incidents
A well-installed, pet-friendly fence:
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Creates a secure outdoor play area
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Supports exercise and stimulation
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Reduces the risk of injury or escape
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Offers peace of mind for pet owners
A fence company ensures the design meets your pets behavior patterns while complementing your homes landscape.
Factors to Consider for Pet-Friendly Fencing
1. Your Pets Size and Breed
Different breeds have different needs:
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Small dogs: Require fences without wide gaps they could slip through.
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Large dogs: Need taller, sturdy fences to prevent jumping over.
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Diggers: Require underground barriers to prevent tunneling.
A fence company can recommend the right height, materials, and installation techniques based on your pet.
2. Fence Height
Fence height should match your pets jumping ability:
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Small breeds: 3-4 feet may suffice.
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Medium breeds: 4-5 feet recommended.
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Large, high-jump breeds: 6 feet or higher.
A professional fence company can assess your yards layout to determine the optimal height while complying with local regulations.
3. Material Selection
Your choice of fencing material affects durability, safety, and maintenance:
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Wood: Offers privacy and security but may require reinforcement for diggers.
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Vinyl: Smooth and durable, reducing injury risk.
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Metal (aluminum/steel): Strong but ensure the design prevents escape.
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Chain Link: Functional but may require privacy slats if needed.
A fence company can help you weigh aesthetics, safety, and maintenance needs when selecting materials.
4. Digging Prevention
If your pet is a digger:
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Extend fencing underground by 12-18 inches.
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Use a concrete footer or bury chicken wire along the fence line.
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Monitor digging behavior and block attempts promptly.
Discuss anti-dig solutions with your fence company during planning.
5. Visibility and Privacy
Some pets may bark excessively if they see outside movement. Consider:
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Solid fencing for dogs reactive to visual stimuli.
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Partial privacy panels for balance.
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Landscaping to reduce stress and external distractions.
A fence company can design fencing with visibility and privacy needs in mind.
Best Types of Fencing for Pets
Wooden Fences
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Provide privacy and security.
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Can be customized for height and design.
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Require maintenance but are sturdy against large pets.
Vinyl Fences
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Low-maintenance and durable.
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Smooth surfaces prevent climbing.
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Resistant to chewing and scratching.
Metal Fences
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Strong and long-lasting.
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Vertical pickets prevent climbing.
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Ensure picket gaps are narrow enough to prevent escape.
Chain Link Fences
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Cost-effective and functional.
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Can be combined with underground barriers for diggers.
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Privacy slats can reduce external distractions.
Your fence company can guide you to the most suitable option for your pet and property layout.
Safety Features to Consider
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Rounded or covered fence tops to prevent injuries.
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Latch and gate systems that pets cannot open.
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Secure gates with self-closing hinges.
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Non-toxic, pet-safe paint or treatments on fences.
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Avoid sharp edges or exposed wires.
A fence company can incorporate these features during installation to enhance safety for your pets.
Maintaining a Pet-Friendly Fence
To keep your fence effective:
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Inspect regularly for loose boards or gaps.
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Check for signs of digging near the fence line.
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Ensure gates close and latch securely.
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Address rust on metal fences to prevent weakening.
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Trim vegetation that may damage or obscure the fence.
Regular maintenance extends your fences lifespan and keeps your pets safe, which your fence company can support through inspections and repairs if needed.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Yard Beyond Fencing
While fencing is essential, your yard should also support your pets well-being:
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Provide shaded areas to prevent overheating.
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Ensure access to clean water during outdoor play.
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Use pet-safe landscaping and avoid toxic plants.
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Create digging areas (sand or soil boxes) for diggers to redirect behavior.
Combining these practices with a secure fence from a fence company will ensure a safe, enriching environment for your pets.
Common Pet Fencing Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes for a successful pet-friendly fencing setup:
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Choosing a fence that is too low for your pets jumping ability.
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Using materials your pet can chew through or damage.
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Leaving gaps under or between fences.
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Not considering your pets behavior and breed tendencies.
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Installing without consulting local regulations and HOA guidelines.
A fence company will help you avoid these pitfalls through expert consultation and professional installation.
Benefits of Hiring a Fence Company for Pet Fencing
Working with a professional fence company ensures:
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Accurate fence height and design for your pets needs.
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Quality materials and expert installation.
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Compliance with local zoning and HOA requirements.
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Custom solutions for digging or climbing pets.
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Enhanced safety with secure gates and pet-friendly materials.
This investment protects your pet while adding value and aesthetic appeal to your home.
Conclusion
A secure, well-planned fence is essential for creating a safe and happy environment for your pets. By considering your pets size, breed, and behavior, and by working with a professional fence company, you can design and install fencing that allows your pets to enjoy outdoor freedom safely.
Whether you choose wood, vinyl, metal, or chain link, the right fencing solution will enhance your pets quality of life while providing you with peace of mind. Take the time to plan your pet-friendly fence, maintain it regularly, and watch your pets thrive in their secure outdoor haven.