Keeping Your Dog in the Yard

If you own a dog, it is expected that you are able to keep the dog in the yard.
Since we all know that loadshedding is a reality, it is even more important that we take extra measures to keep our dogs in our yards, especially considering that palisade gates sometimes come open during loadshedding.
As I’ve stated previously, if you have a busy lifestyle, it is best that you don’t get a dog that needs a lot of attention, because this will increase the chances of your dog getting out the yard.

The best practice is to have your yard split in two – if this isn’t something you have in your own yard, see if you can put aside the finances to get this done. This can act as a deterrent to your dog trying to get out the yard. This will also keep your dog safe for two reasons:
– Criminals won’t have easy access to your dog to poison it
– You’ll be able to know that your dog stays in the yard if you happen to drive out your yard to either go to work or to the shop

Also, if you happen to go away on holiday, it is best if you leave your dog at a boarding facility; but if you do plan on keeping the dog at your place of residence, please make sure of two things:
– The person you ask to look after the dog is someone that is responsible, and who will take extra measures to make sure your dog stays in the yard
– Put off any hired help you may have for the time you are away – this will also decrease the chances of your dog getting out the yard, hired help aren’t always vigilant about keeping dogs in the yard

If your yard isn’t secure and your dog has a habit of getting out the yard, rather take the dog to a boarding facility where he will be safe. You can always ask someone to look after the house while you’re away and if you are with an alarm company ask them to make extra turns around your place to make sure everything is fine. Also make sure that your dog is microchipped – this increases the chances of the dog getting back to the correct owner if the dog happens to go missing.

There are other possible deterrents if your dog is a wall jumper:
– Consider having your wall built higher (if you have a wall and not palisade)
– There are anti-jumping rollers you can put against your wall that can prevent your dog from getting over the wall
– If none of these work, as a very last resort – you can put up a running chain for your dog – though take note, not everyone is going to agree with this method

Before taking on a dog – consider their energy and stimulation needs. Don’t take on a breed of dog you don’t have the time for.
One last thing to remember – if your dog has a habit of getting out the yard, people can call law enforcement who will give you a fine for your dog getting out the yard.

As always, please always practice responsible pet ownership.

Blog Post By Your Pet Caring Friend,
Carmen Harris.