by Bonnie Story

Created on: December 14, 2006   Last Updated: April 30, 2007

My Dog Escapes and Runs Away!

First of all - is your dog spayed (for females) or neutered (for males) - If not, have this done right away. It's unfair to keep your pet in a constant state of sexual frustration. The surgury is safe and nearly painless so do it - ask your vet for confirmation of this, and visit your local animal shelter for proof that pet overpopulation is a huge problem. Allowing your pet to breed is just irresponsible and ultimately causes much suffering.

The main cause of escape and straying is, quite simply, boredom and anxiety from being left alone too much. Can you have a local helper walk your dog during the day to alleviate this? Can you come home at lunch and walk the dog or can your dog go to work with you some of the time?

Some people have good luck getting a second dog to provide companionship to the original lonely dog, but this may not be successful. Proceed with care if you wish to do this. Some jealousies may erupt and there is the possibility that you will just end up with two bored and lonely escape artists in your yard.

Your fencing or confinement system may be inviting a challenge - is the fence high enough and sturdy enough? Applying a skirt of heavy wire, partially buried around the bottom of the fence may help if the dog digs his way out.

Can the dog be confined inside the house in a dog-proof room or indoor kennel area? Often, being inside the house gives the dog the secure feeling that he needs to just sleep the day away instead of escaping. If your dog's house manners are not up to par, consider training and crate training to make this possible.

It's very important to be fully aware that keeping your dog confined to your property is your legal responsibility as the dog's owner. Dogs roaming free may legally be shot dead if they harass livestock. Dogs who cause traffic accidents or harm to personal property put their owners at grave risk of lawsuit for damages and expenses. Your dog is at also risk of being stolen or maliciously harmed when he runs loose - please do not allow this to happen, for the sake of your dog, your neighborhood and your wallet!

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