We have not had a dog in TV, but in our northern home, we had Invisible Fence — which I know saved our dog’s life because she loved to chase deer and could run forever.
Like others have, I recommend Invisible Fence — but with one caveat…….
Invisible Fence can keep your dog in — but it cannot keep other creatures out — so don’t get overly casual about letting your dog out.
Coyotes are here and gators, too.
A few years ago, there were news stories in TV about small dogs that were taken by coyotes.
Coyotes are highly intelligent and sneaky. In both cases, the coyote very likely knew the dog’s schedule to be let out and was waiting. As I recall, one attack was in early morning and the other was late at night. The coyote seemed to know the routine.
Coyotes are cousins to our domestic dogs and if we think about how our beloved pets seem to be able to tell time, we should not be surprised that coyotes can do that, too. If you have ever known a farm dog whose job it is to help bring in the cows, you know that dog is always on time for work.
I have great respect for coyotes as survivors. (They are not stupid like Wile E.) They have now migrated from the West to every state. They are no longer the small, scraggly types. Urban coyotes look big, healthy, and sleek from dining on a veritable buffet that now includes people’s pets.
Anyone interested in better understanding our neighbors, the coyotes, might like to Google an article titled “City Slinkers” from Smithsonian magazine, a 2006 issue. It is online, and even though 2006 was quite a while ago, you can assume the stats are even more in the coyote’s favor. The only natural predator the coyote had was the wolf and wolves were significantly wiped out for many years.
Anyway, yes to the Invisible Fence, but make sure you are aware of the possibility of a lurking coyote who might know your dog’s “time to go potty” routine. Not trying to scare you. The odds are definitely in your favor, just be sure you know the territory.
Beep Beep Boomer
PS: About our deer-chasing dog, Annie, who was stifled by the Invisible Fence. . .she was a house dog who lived a lovely domestic life for almost 17 years. But she knew when the deer would show up. She watched out the window for them and would bark to let us know.
We would then usually let her out — but only after the deer had retreated and were on their way back to the woods. She would then run the perimeter of the Invisible Fence, barking and shouting, “AND STAY OUT!”
It was a joy to see her run like that. But we know the Invisible Fence kept her home and safe.
(If you get one, subscribe to the batteries and make sure they are changed regularly.)
Your dog will be just fine in TV because you are doing your homework and will be on on top of things.
