Keeping Furry Friends Safe with a Fence
As a responsible pet owner, you’ll want to protect your pet from escaping your property and abide by your city’s animal control ordinances. The most popular pets in residential areas are dogs and cats, and each species has its own requirements when choosing containment fencing. The right fence will protect your pets, keep other animals and intruders out, and let them roam your yard safely.
When choosing a fence, consider your pet’s breed. Large dog breeds like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies need a tall fence — 6 feet minimum — that they can’t jump over. You can get by with a shorter fence (4 feet) for smaller dogs. Chihuahuas and cats can squeeze through spaces between pickets and panels, so that’s a consideration when choosing a fence style.
Certain dog breeds, such as terriers, like to dig, making fence depth a top consideration. A fence depth of 12 inches or deeper will stabilize your fence if it’s attacked by an aggressive digger. You can also install a wire mesh barrier along the bottom of the fence to deter digging. When choosing the fence gate, again, make sure dogs can’t dig beneath it and that it has a secure latch. Lastly, since dogs like to chew, choosing a non-toxic fencing material is essential.
Recommended fencing material for pet owners:
Vinyl
Vinyl fencing is a durable, low-maintenance option that’s especially pet-friendly. Its smooth surface prevents splinters, making it safe for dogs and other pets to play nearby. Unlike wood, vinyl doesn’t need painting or staining, so you avoid exposing your pets to potentially harmful chemicals. With its long-lasting performance and clean appearance, vinyl is a smart choice for keeping your pets safe and your yard looking great.
Chain-Link
Chain-link fences are a cost-effective, durable option for pet owners looking to keep their furry friends safe. They provide a secure boundary that’s strong enough to withstand most pets and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for busy households. However, dogs that like to dig may try to get under the fence, so it’s important to take extra steps—like burying part of the fence underground or adding a barrier—to ensure your pets stay safely inside. With these precautions, chain-link fencing can be a practical and pet-friendly solution for your yard.
Wood
Wood fencing can be a great option for dogs when you choose high-quality, splinter-resistant wood. It offers a natural, attractive look and can provide solid privacy for your pets. Since wood requires regular painting or staining, it’s important to use pet-safe, non-toxic products to keep your furry friends safe. With proper care, a wooden fence can be both beautiful and a secure, pet-friendly boundary for your yard.
Special Considerations for Cats
Cats are hunters by nature, so they are often on the prowl. They can easily scale most fences, and if you have trees that overhang your fence, cats can easily climb trees and jump to the ground on the other side. To keep your outdoor cat safe, you can add an angled or curved top to the fence to prevent the cat from climbing over. You can also add fine mesh to the top of your fence to keep the cat contained.
Pet-Friendly Fencing Solutions From Capitol Fence
Capitol Fence can install a pet-friendly fence in vinyl, wood, or chain-link that keeps your pets safe while enhancing your home’s design and landscaping. We use high-quality materials and provide a clean, professional installation from start to finish. To get started with a reliable local fencing company, call us at 614-833-6123 or reach out through our online contact form.