If you own a pet boarding facility, you need to have a safe, fenced-in exercise yard for the canine clients. Choosing the right fence is key.
1. Choose Solid Fencing
There are two reasons to opt for solid fencing. The first is that an open picket fencing won't easily confine the pups under the care of your business. Smaller dogs can easily escape, even if your staff takes pains to keep a watchful eye on them. Chainlink fencing will confine dogs of all sizes, but being able to see out can be stressful for some canines. Passing traffic, both pedestrian and vehicular, can cause some dogs to become nervous and agitated.
2. Avoid Wood
Although solid fences are preferred over open fencing, wood isn't the best option for a boarding facility. Some dogs are drawn to chew on wood, especially those that are already a bit anxious because they are away from home. Wood can be chewed through and it can crack, giving dogs the chance to escape. Further, wood needs constant maintenance to keep it from rotting. Vinyl fencing is a sturdy, low maintenance option that dogs aren't likely to chew through.
3. Avoid Gate Gaps
Another weak point in a fence is the gate, as dogs can squeeze beneath and escape. Yet, you will need to have at least one exit from the exercise yard in order to meet safety codes, and possibly more depending on local regulations. Choose a gate system that comes down nearly to the ground. There should also be minimal space on either side of the gate so dogs can't squeeze through. Another method to increase gate security is to have a concrete curb installed beneath the gate so that foot traffic doesn't wear down the soil and create space a dog can squeeze under.
4. Add Height
Some dogs are quick to jump over low fences, even when being closely watched. It's better to be safe rather than sorry, so make sure the fence you choose is at least 6 feet tall. This will also prevent passers-by outside of the fence from reaching over in an attempt to pet the dog, which could lead to liability issues.
5. Prevent Jumpers
Even with a tall fence, some breeds can still jump and pull themselves over the top in the blink of an eye. Roller bars prevent this with no harm to the dog. These bars are affixed to the top of the fence so when a dog tries to hook a paw over the top, it rolls and the dog falls back to the ground inside of the fence.
Contact a commercial fencing installation service, such as Metro Fence, for more help.
