PetSafe Fact Sheet

Corporate Facts

• Radio Systems Corporation, the maker of the PetSafe, Guardian and SportDOG brands, was founded in 1991 and currently employs 400 people worldwide.

• Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, the company is an innovator in the development of safe, reliable and superior pet solutions.

• PetSafe’s product line up includes: kennels and electronic underground fences; bark control systems; a selection of remote training products; pet doors; pet identification collars; heated wellness products; pet feeders and a growing line of lifestyle products.

• Safety is at the forefront of everything PetSafe develops. PetSafe’s Premium line of products includes a limited lifetime warranty.

• PetSafe is the best selling pet training and electronic containment brand.

• PetSafe products are sold via pet stores, mass merchant outlets, online retailers, farm & home stores and catalog and mail order catalogs in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Northern Europe, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Japan and Korea.

• PetSafe operates numerous outreach programs including The PetSafe Village, PetSafe Dog Park, The PetSafe Veterinary and the Veterinary Technicians Test-Drive Program, an innovative Animal Control Officers Program and Shelter Program. For more information please visit www.petsafeoutreach.com.

• In 2005, PetSafe launched the first national online pet product invention contest called "IdeaFetch." IdeaFetch was created to provide an easy outlet for pet lovers to share their creativity while making a difference in the lives of pets and their owners. The winning product idea, the PetSafe Micro I.D. Rescue Collar will hit store shelves in January of 2007. Based on the overwhelming response to IdeaFetch in the United States, IdeaFetch Canada was announced in 2006. In the same year, PetSafe partnered with Drs. Foster & Smith to launch a similar online pet invention contest called, "My Pet Idea."

• PetSafe is the only pet company in the United States to have a public dog park, state-of-the-art pet spa, pet training facility, doggie travel rest stop, overnight accommodations with door-to hotel service, kitty gym, Yappy Hour and deluxe dog suites on the grounds of their company headquarters in Knoxville, TN.

• In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina (2005), Radio Systems Corporation donated more than $26,000, established a dollar-for-dollar employee-match program to benefit theAmerican Red Cross, provided emergency shelter for 18 dogs and cats and their owners and hosted a tele-thon at the PetSafe Village to raise an additional $11,800 for the Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley.

• Radio Systems and its employees have donated $20,000 to shelters, rescue organizations and spay and neuter clinics across America and have contributed more than $5,000 to Knox County’s Second Harvest Food Bank. Radio Systems employees sponsored 180 angel-tree children at Christmas, raised money for breast cancer research through the Susan B. Komen Foundation’s annual Race for the Cure, and collected nearly $11,000 for Junior Achievement. In 2006, Radio Systems employees built a Habitat for Humanity home for a family of eight. 75 percent of the Radio System’s employees in Knoxville have contributed to the company’s community outreach initiatives within the last year.

Product Facts

• The Comfort-Fit Collar represents PetSafe’s newest innovation for its line of technologically-advanced pet training and containment systems.

• PetSafe is the first to design and manufacture the PetSafe Wellness Bed™ the only pet bed that incorporates massage and heat functions (launched in 2005).

• PetSafe is the first and only manufacturer to create a dual-detection, "perfect bark control" device, which combines both vibration and microphone technology to eliminate false activation (patent awarded in 2000).

• PetSafe is the first and only manufacturer to create a wireless electronic pet containment system (launched in 1999).

• PetSafe is the first to design and manufacture the PetSafe Cat Veranda™ the only window-mounted cat flap that includes an open-air patio with covered roof and indoor lounging platform (launched in 2006).

• PetSafe introduced the first pet electronic training product line boasting software that adjusts to the pets needs (launched in 1997).

• PetSafe is the first manufacturer to introduce a safety time-out feature on its bark control collars and pet containment fencing units.

Safety of Electronic Containment and Training Devices

In the 30 years since the first “shock collars” became widely available in the United States, these increasingly popular electronic containment and training collars have been refined by PetSafe to produce more effective results in ways that have proven not only to be humane, but also gentle. PetSafe’s LiteTouch training method for electric dog fences is a great case in point. While the technology behind modern electronic training collars has come a long way, some veterinarians and consumers harbor misconceptions about these products and their effect on dogs based upon their impressions of older, crudely designed systems of the 1970’s. To the contrary, studies in recent years offer conclusive evidence that the proper use of modern electronic dog fences and training collars does not lead to adverse effects on dogs. In fact, it offers dogs a new found freedom they never had before while remaining safe and secure in their yard. A wide range of credible experts believe that the average dog owner with basic training knowledge can effectively and humanely use electric dog fencing and electronic training collars for behavioral modification, obedience training and containment needs. The safety and effectiveness of modern electric dog fences and electronic training collars are supported by The Humane Society of the United States, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the International Association of Canine Professionals, International Association of Canine Professionals, among others.

Responsible dog owners want to make sure their dogs are safe, that they do not create nuisance and more important do not cause accidents. Each year thousands of electric dog fences are installed by caring dog owners. These fences work by providing a static electrical stimulation to the collar of a dog to deter him from crossing established boundaries.Martin Deeley, President of IACP, endorses Gentle ‘LiteTouch™’ Training, “So many presume that the use of electronic collars involve harsh corrections. This does not have to be the case as is proven in the ‘LiteTouch™’ approach. Many containment systems have been taught to the dog using a much stronger jolt early in the training program. The dog will sometimes relate this strong stimulation to many things and what he learns we can never be certain, plus it generates a high stress level not conducive to his education. With ‘LiteTouch™’ the trainer guides, shows, gains understanding, and develops an appreciation from the dog of boundaries and where he is safe to play and have fun. We applaud this move by PetSafe. It is responsible, far sighted and shows compassion to the dog. More than that, it alleviates the concerns many dog owners have that the experience of learning the containment fence will ‘hurt their dog’. I highly recommend PetSafe electric dog fences and electronic training collars; both for their technology and their revolutionary Gentle LiteTouch™ training program.For those who want to keep their dogs safe and happy in their own yards, a electric dog fence is an excellent investment.

“We recognize that older products were often unreliable and difficult to use humanely. But we feel that new technology employed by responsible manufacturers has led to products that can be and are being used safely and effectively to preserve the safety and well-being of many dogs and strengthen the bond with their human companions.”

Randall Lockwood, PhD Vice President for Research and Educational Outreach The
Humane Society of the United States

Q & A Electric Dog fence / Training Tips

Training Your Dog using a PetSafe Electric Dog fence:

It is important to have as little disruption as possible during your pets' training sessions.

During the training process it is VERY IMPORTANT that you do not let your dog run off lead in the yard with or without wearing the dog fence collar. If you do, it will confuse him and you may have to re-start the entire electronic dog fence training process. It would be best to keep him on a leash during the first week. But, never walk your pet over the boundary line on a leash. This may confuse him in the beginning. Eventually, you will be able to take him with you over the boundary on a leash - this is called "Doorway Training" and we will talk about this later. But for now, if he needs to leave the yard, place him in the car, or carry him well over to the other side of the signal field. Don't forget to REMOVE HIS ELECTRIC DOG FENCE COLLAR before taking him from the yard by either of these two options, or he will get corrected as he leaves.

To allow your dog to become accustomed to the collar probes on his neck remove the collar after each training session during the first week. After that, remove the dog fence collar each night for the next three weeks. Eventually he will be able to wear the dog fence collar all the time, but it may take some time for him to develop a tolerance to the probes on the receiver. Clean both the probes and the dogs neck every evening for the first 30 days.

The training flags are there for two reasons. First, to give your dog a visual boundary and secondly to help you with the training process. The flags should be installed about 12" to your yard side on the dog fence wire in the ground. All of the flags will remain in the yard for about 30 days.

Remember the PetSafe electric dog fence training should be fun, and not stressful at all. If other family members are assisting in the training sessions, it is vitally important that everyone follows the exact same technique. Make each session short and upbeat (5 to10 minutes max). Many dogs have extremely short attention spans and training can be very tiring for them, so don't get discouraged if he doesn't "get it" at first - they will eventually learn.

Days 1 to 3 Place a leash on your dog using a flat collar or a slip collar, Never place the leash directly on the receiver collar. Prior to placing the dog fence collar on your dog, turn the dog fence collar to the lowest power setting. Your dog needs to first be taught how to respond to the flags. Walk with your dog within the containment area of the yard and praise and play with him.

Now, proceed towards the training flags. As your dog head passes the flags, give a quick horizontal or downward "jerk and release" correction on the leash. Bring your dog back about 10 feet into the containment area and praise him. The "jerk and release" is the only negative reinforcement your dog needs. There is no verbal correction needed. The PetSafe dog collar will be giving your dog a warning tone before the very light correction he is getting at the flags. You should tailor the corrections to your pets' personality, temperament, size and breed.

Each training session should only last about 5 to 10 minutes. Enter the containment area at various places and focus on areas that the family typically would leave the yard ( ie: driveway, sidewalk or path your dog uses now to leave). Soon you should see your dog turn to avoid the flags. This shows that he is learning. Make sure you play with your dog in the containment area to show him time spent in the yard is a pleasant experience. This will prevent your dog from becoming timid or afraid going into the yard.

Remember, keep him on a leash during this first week, even to go outside to the bathroom. Some dogs will "pick up" the training faster than others. Before proceeding to Phase 2, be sure that your dog is happy to run and play in the yard, generally avoiding the flags. If not, spend an extra day or two flag training. Training is simply following the building blocks - you cannot proceed to Phase 2 without first completing the flag training.

PHASE-2 : Week 2 During Phase 2 Your dog can now experience the higher correction levels of the dog fence collar. Walk your dog within the containment area of the yard and praise + feed meat treats to him. Allow your dog to proceed toward the training flags. When your dog enters the signal field, he will experience an uncomfortable, but harmless, static correction. Since this correction may startle your dog, he may jump and yelp. This is normal. Make sure when this happens, you quickly pull your dog back into the containment area. The entire time you will need to have a smile on your face and praise him - make sure to feed a small hot dog bite. Play in the safe area and do not allow your dog to run back to the house. NEVER PULL OR CALL YOUR DOG INTO THE SIGNAL FIELD. Let him decide to enter or stay within the safe area.

You will need to begin to incorporate "set-ups" in your training sessions. A "set-up" is a situation that would normally tempt your dog to leave the yard, such as a person walking by and crossing the boundary, or another pet outside the boundary. These will teach your dog that he needs to pay attention to his whereabouts, regardless of the situation. Until now, the training has not been tested under conditions where your dog has a heightened level of desire. You may begin this training by having a family member walk out of the yard. Your dog should still be on a long leash and wearing his dog fence collar. Remember, DO NOT call your dog out of the boundary!

If your dog refuses to follow the family member, praise him warmly. HE IS LEARNING. If your dog decides to follow the family member, allow him to enter the signal field and receive a correction. Again, your dog may respond by jumping and yelping. Quickly pull him back into the safe area of the yard while smiling and praising on the way. Repeat the process with other "set-ups" such as other pets, a ball, a stick, etc... in various places around the yard. Use something that really excites your pet. Sometimes with dogs that have a high food drive, you can throw some lunch meat or a hot dog just past the flags. This process will cause your dog to make a choice and it is a critical point in his learning process.

If your dog is not responding when he enters the signal field, it is usually due to the dog fence collar being too loose, or his hair is to thick to make good probe to skin contact. If the dog fence collar is fitting properly and your dog does not respond when he enters the signal field, this usually means that the correction level is set too low. Adjust to a higher level. To help adjusting your Petsafe dog collar click here: http://petsafe-warehouse.com/outdoor/deluxe.htm

Before proceeding to Phase 3, be sure your dog is happy to run and play in the safe area of the yard and is avoiding the training flags, if not, spend an extra day or two on Phase 2.
PHASE-3 : week 3 If your dog has successfully completed Phases 1 & 2, he is now ready to be off the leash while you are constantly supervising him. DO NOT leave your dog unattended during this phase. It is not uncommon for your dog to associate the training with his leash, or to the trainer, and he may leave the yard when these conditions change. If that happens, retrieve your dog, remove his collar and return to the yard. Many times, the dog will run back into the safe area of the yard by himself. If you are unable to retrieve him immediately, turn the transmitter off so that he can return without receiving a correction.

After six days of constantly supervising your pet while off the leash, you can begin to leave him unattended for short periods of time. Gradually, over the next week, begin building up the time your dog is left unattended.

Some dogs will want to stay near the house or may be hesitant to go outside. It may take a few days before your dog is confident to do so alone. If so, take your dog to the safe area and give him some meat treats, play with him and give him lots of praise to show him that it is safe to be outside.

Remember, if your dog is not properly and fully trained to the electric dog fence - it will not work. You cannot progress from one stage to the next without being certain that your dog has fully understood the previous stage. If you are unsure, spend the time to add a few extra days on a stage before proceeding. Remember - these electric dog fences are NOT a miracle cure, they cannot physically restrain a dog from leaving a yard. Your dog must be properly trained to the system (up to 30 days) for the dog fence to work. If you are hesitant or unsure about training the dog yourself, we recommend consulting a reputable Professional Trainer who has experence with electeronic dog fences. Or, your local PetSafe Professional dealer. Click here for a PetSafe Professional Dealer: http://www.ineedadogfence.com

FINALLY - Two weeks after your pet can safely be left outside unattended, you may begin removing the training flags. Pull every other flag each day until all of the flags are removed. Once the flags are gone you can teach your dog how to safely walk over the boundary - this is called "Doorway training". Remove the dog fence collar and place him on a leash using a flat or slip collar. Encourage your dog to follow you by reassuring him and praising him. Most dogs will be reluctant, but you must be persistent. DO NOT allow your dog to "bolt through" the signal field. Teach him it is safe to cross with you while he is on a leash. Use a release word such as " FREE" . Be consistent and both exit the yard and re-enter it at the same point each time. Eventually your pet will associate the leash with leaving safely.

For Petsafe Electric Dog Fences check out these sites:
http://www.petsafe-warehouse.com

http://www.petamenities.com/underground.htm

http://www.ineedadogfence.com