If you have an escape artist in the family, you have several options for breakout prevention and control.
Stop yard breakouts!
- If your yard isn’t completely fenced in, your pet shouldn’t be allowed to roam without a leash. You can find portable fenced runs or tie-outs at your local pet store; the folks there will help you pick something appropriate based on the size and activity level of your pet.
- Make sure all gates are securely closed. Chain or otherwise secure gates — a smart pup could learn to pull a chain or lift a latch and take himself for a little walk.
- Know where your pets are at all times if you are going to be opening the gate.
- Make sure your fence doesn’t have any holes.
- Make sure your fence is low enough to the ground that your pet can’t squeeze underneath.
- Don’t let your pets dig near the fences — they may be trying to tunnel out of the yard! You can place large stones or cement blocks or even planters along the fences to restrict access.
Stop house breakouts!
- Don’t leave doors open or ajar. Make sure they are securely closed at all times.
- Don’t leave windows wide open. If you do open a window, make sure the opening is smaller than your pet so he can’t squeeze out.
- If you need to leave the doors open, leave your pet in a room with the door securely closed.
- If you are expecting visitors, leave your pet in a room with the door securely closed until they have arrived. Be especially careful around the holidays — with all the excitement, your pets could become confused or upset and try to sneak out the door when someone comes in!
Make sure your pets wear collars (with ID tags) at all times. They will help get your pet back safe and sound if he does escape, but it’s also easier to grab a collar on a runaway dog than to grab a dog who isn’t wearing one. Believe me, I know. Moose has made a break for it too many times without a collar on, so I’ve had to get a little creative in bringing him back.