Gates, Carriers and Fences: How to Safely Contain Your Precious Pet

Do you wonder about how best to contain your dog or cat? Whether your "best friend" is small or large...or somewhere in between...you will want to explore the many humane ways in which you can safely and securely contain your pet...to maximize his or her comfort!

Most pet owners would love to allow their four-footed companions full access to their homes and yards. As a rule, however, pets, like people, are much happier with well-defined boundaries.

In addition to protecting your "best friend" (and your family and furniture) by containing him or her at home, you will need to contain your pet when you are away from home.

Securing Your Pet When You Take a Trip

When business or personal travel is on the agenda, you may not always be able to take your dog or cat with you. Because pets sometimes get destructive when they're left behind by their "family", it is necessary to contain them.
Airy fenced-in areas are best. Of course, you will want a trusted friend or neighbor to pop in to make sure your pet is fed, given fresh water and exercised on a daily basis.

Special Cat Considerations

You will need to contain your pet when you take him or her on a short trip-like to the veterinarian. Whereas dogs can be taught to jump into and out of your car and can be either carried into the veterinarian's office or led in by a leash, cats are a different matter.

A cat should be placed in a pet carrier when he or she travels. For short journeys, box-like units with plenty of air holes suffice. These carriers come in a slew of materials, from throwaway cardboard to sturdy plastic.
The brand name Marchioro offers plastic and wire carriers for under $30.00. More fashionable pet totes look like oversized handbags and can be used for any small dog, as well. They sell for under $50.00.

Special Dog Considerations

Restricting your dog-even small breeds, like the Shih Tzu-presents more of a challenge, but will keep your pet from running out the door when neighbors arrive, and prevent "visits" from other wildlife when your dog ventures outside.