Pet containment goes high-tech

If you've ever wasted a weekend building a fence to keep the family dog at bay - or gone to the expense of having one installed - only to find it totally ineffective against Rover's high-jumping prowess you'll appreciate the concept of the wireless pet fence. The fence works using radio signals that are emitted from an underground wire and picked up by a light-weight receiver worn on the pet's collar. This collar picks up the radio signal and alerts your pet as it nears the boundary using a deterrent varying from a mild static correction to a harmless spray of citronella depending on the system chosen. The transmitter plugs into a standard outlet and the underground wire is safe, easy to install and is cheaper than conventional fencing. The "fence" can be used on multiple pets and they will learn to stay within the perimeter once properly trained so they can remain happy and in one piece - the waterproof receiver is also too small at 42 grams to get in the way.

The system is designed for small to average sized yards and there is inbuilt protection against false signals. A Deluxe version covers up to 25 acres and incorporates "progressive correction" where the level of deterrence is increased gradually until the dog turns back. There's also an indoor model and a portable version called "Instant Fence". The Radio Fence costs from AUS$419 to $699 depending on the spec, with extra collars costing from AUS$209 to $329. Available online at www.innotek.com.au, freecall 1800 786 608.