Innotek® UltraSmart™ Contain 'n' Train™ In-Ground Fence

FAQs

• Do I have to bury the wire? If so, how deep?

  We recommend burying the wire about 2.5 cm deep. The wire needs to be able to send the signal out to the collar.

  You can leave the boundary wire above ground or even attach it to an existing fence, but it is not recommended due to the potential for damage to the wire. We do recommend that you bury the wire or place it in a protective casing like a water hose but the system will work with the exposed and wire above ground. The boundary wire is buried so that it is not accidentally tripped over, cut, or damaged. Use care when using a lawn mower or weed trimmer or when digging near the boundary wire to prevent damage. It can be attached to any fence including a metal fence as long as it is galvanised. When attaching the boundary wire to the fence, be careful not to sever the wire.

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• How do I repair a damaged wire (splicing wires)?

  Before you begin splicing wire, it will be helpful to you to take note the locations of all splices for future reference. If you ever have a wire break, these most often happen at a splice and it will be helpful to you to be able to find your splices easily if this ever happens.

  It will also be helpful to make your splices waterproof. Gel-filled splices are available at most hardware stores and are included in your original containment system. To make a splice:

  1. Strip approximately 1 cm of insulation off the ends of the boundary wires to be spliced. Make sure the copper of the wire is not corroded. If the boundary wire is corroded, cut it back to expose clean copper wire.
  2. Insert the stripped ends into the wire nut and twist the wire nut around the wires. Ensure that there is no copper exposed beyond the end of the wire nut. Tie a knot 8-10 cm from the wire nut. Ensure that the wire nut is secure on the wire splice.
  3. Once you have securely spliced the wires together, open the lid of the gel-filled splice capsule and insert the wire nut as deeply as possible into the waterproof gel inside the capsule.
  4. Snap the lid of the capsule shut. For proper system performance, the splice connection must be waterproof.
  5. Additional gel-filled splice capsules and wire nuts are available for purchase online or through the Customer Care Centre.
  6. Make sure your splice is secure. If your splice pulls loose, the system will not function. 

  

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• How do I run the wire over my driveway?

  You have a few options for working with a driveway as a part of your containment system.

  Concrete Driveway

  If your driveway is concrete, you can place the boundary wire in a convenient expansion joint or create a groove using a circular saw and masonry blade.

  • Clean out the expansion joint or groove.
  • Place the boundary wire in the groove
  • Cover the wire with an appropriate water proofing compound.
  • It may help to you to use landscape staples or half of a small piece of PVC pipe or water hose to protect the wire on either side of the driveway or sidewalk. This will ensure that the wire isn't cut during activities such as weed trimming or mowing near the driveway.

  If you do not wish to cut your driveway and an expansion joint is not an option, you may want to consider using a double loop layout. You may also want to reconsider your layout and avoid the driveway as part of your containment area.

  Gravel or Dirt Driveway

  If your drive is gravel or dirt, you can run the boundary wire through a PVC pipe or section of water hose to protect the boundary wire. Then bury the pipe or hose and wire.

  

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• How long will it take me to install an in-ground fence?

  This is dependent on the layout you have planned, soil conditions, the tools you are using, amount of wire buried, etc. The majority of the time involved in installing your system is in burying the wire. This is typically considered a weekend project; it can be completed in about a day. It's very helpful to have someone to help you plan, layout and install the system.

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• I have a break in my wire. How do I find it?
  1. Locate your original splice(s) and verify they have a good, solid connection.
  2. Check your garden to determine any possible damage to the boundary wire (recent digging, aerating, or rodent burrowing near the boundary wire).
  3. Unplug the transmitter.
  4. Connect both ends of your twisted Boundary wire to one boundary wire terminal.
  5. Measure and cut a test wire which is half the length of your total boundary wire footage.
  6. Connect one end of test wire to the other boundary wire terminal.
  7. Locate the halfway point of your boundary and cut the boundary wire.
  8. Splice the other end of the test wire to either side of your boundary wire where you cut it in half.
  9. Plug in the transmitter and check the loop indicator light. If the light is on, you can assume the break is in the other half of the boundary wire.
  10. If the light did not come on, you may assume there is a break in this portion of the boundary wire. However, there is a small chance of having more than one break in your system. Be sure to check both halves of your entire loop.
  11. Replace the damaged boundary wire with new boundary wire.
  12. Reconnect the boundary wire to the transmitter.
  13. Check the loop indicator light. If the light is on, test the system with the receiver collar.

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• My pet keeps running through the boundary.
  • Make sure the boundary width is at least 3.5 - 6 metres wide.
  • Test the receiver collar with the test light tool, walking toward the boundary wire. If the test light flashes, check the fit of the receiver collar on your pet. You may need to trim the fur around your pet’s neck or purchase longer contact points.

  If the receiver collar is not activating see “My receiver collar is not providing static stimulation.” If the collar is activating:

  • If receiver collar has adjustable stimulation levels, increase the level of static stimulation one level at a time and test each level on your pet before progressing to the next level
  • Turn up transmitter boundary dial
  • Repeat the training steps to reinforce the boundary for your pet.
  • If pet is now receiving the stimulation but still will not stay in the garden, even after reinforcement of training, you may need to purchase a stubborn dog receiver collar with higher stimulation intensity levels.

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• My receiver collar activates inconsistently.
  • Make sure fence transmitter is at least 1 metre from large metal objects or appliances.
  • Make sure all boundary wire turns are gradual with a 1 metre radius.
  • Make sure the boundary wire is not running parallel to and within 3 metres of electrical wires, neighbouring containment systems, telephones wires, television or antenna cables, or satellite dishes.
  • If a neighbouring containment system may be causing an inconsistent signal, move the boundary wire further away from the neighbouring containment system.
  • Perform the Short Loop Test
  • If receiver collar continues to activate inconsistently – please contact our Customer Care Centre to replace transmitter.
  • If receiver collar activates normally – possible interference from other wires or a partial wire break. Perform the wire break locator test.

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• The receiver collar is activating in places it shouldn’t (inside the house, far from the wire).
  • Turn the boundary width control knob anti-clockwise to decrease the distance from the boundary wire that the receiver collar activates.
  • Make sure the boundary wire is not running too close to the house. The signal can transmit through the walls of your house.
  • Make sure boundary wires are twisted 30 twists per metre from boundary to the fence transmitter.
  • Make sure the boundary wire is not running parallel to and within 3 metres of electrical wires, neighbouring containment systems, telephones wires, television or antenna cables, or satellite dishes.
  • Remove any large metal objects near the transmitter.
  • If it is activating in the wrong places randomly, reprogram the receiver to the transmitter. If the problem persists, replace the receiver collar.

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• What is the double loop layout and why do I need to do it?

  A double loop is a type of wire layout which gives you the option to establish a boundary when you do not want to contain your whole property, or to allow for a place for your pet to safely cross.

  

  1. First, run the wire around the perimeter.
  2. When you get to the end, make a U-turn with your wire and backtrack around the coverage area.
  3. Be sure to keep the wire at least 1.5 M apart where you want signal. When you want to cancel the signal, bring the wires together and twist them 30 times per meter.

  

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• What is the ideal boundary width?

  The ideal distance for your boundary is between 1.5 to 3 metres, depending on the available garden distance. The higher the width, the greater the distance between your pet’s safe area and the end of the boundary. Keep this as high as possible, so you will have fewer problems keeping your dog in the garden. Please keep in mind that good training is always needed.

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• Can I use more than one receiver collar on the system?

  Yes. There is no limit to the number of pets you can contain with the containment system. It’s as simple as purchasing an additional (compatible) receiver collar for each pet. You can purchase additional receiver collars online or contact our Customer Care Centre.

  Before making any changes to your system, remove the receiver collar from your existing pet(s). When adding pets to new or existing electronic fence systems, check the boundary limits for each receiver collar separately before using on your pet and adjust the transmitter range as necessary.

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• Can the receiver collar be placed on my pet’s present collar?

  Yes, the receiver can be place on any non-metallic strap. However, you must be able and willing to “punch” two holes in your pet's current collar so that the contact points can be properly inserted. Do not attach a lead to a collar that has a receiver on it. This can cause additional pressure on your pet’s neck through the contact points in the collar.

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• Getting the proper fit on the receiver collar.
  1. The proper fit and placement of your receiver collar is important for effective training. The contact points must have direct contact with your pets skin on the underside of their neck. To ensure a proper fit, please follow these steps:
  2. Make sure that the battery is not installed in the receiver collar.
  3. Start with your pet standing comfortably.
  4. Centre the contact points underneath your pet’s neck, touching the skin. If your pet has a long or thick coat, consider using the long contact points to reach through the fur. These can be purchased by contacting our Customer Care Centre. It is sometimes necessary to trim the hair around the contact points to make sure that contact is consistent.
  5. Check the tightness of the receiver collar by inserting one finger between the end of a contact point and your pet’s neck. The fit should be snug but not constricting.
  6. Allow your pet to wear the collar for several minutes then recheck the fit. Check the fit again as your pet becomes more comfortable with the receiver collar.
  7. Next, trim the collar length. Mark the desired length of the receiver collar with a pen. Allow for growth if your pet is young or grows a thick winter coat.
  8. Remove the receiver collar from your pet and cut off the excess strap.
  9. If your receiver has a nylon strap, seal the edge of the cut collar by applying a flame along the frayed edge.

  

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• How do I drain the battery’s energy from the receiver collar?

  If it is a model with a stimulation level button, press and hold the button down for approximately 20 seconds. For models without this button, take the battery out for about 1 minute or take it to the boundary and activate the collar until it no longer corrects. Make sure that the tab under the battery is lifted, if applicable.

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• How long can my pet wear the receiver collar?

  Never leave the receiver collar on your pet for more than 12 consecutive hours and remove the receiver collar from your pet when indoors for your pet’s comfort. Millions of pets are comfortable while they wear stainless steel contacts. Here are some important steps for the health and comfort of your pet:

  • Proper fit of the collar is important. A collar worn for too long or made too tight on the pet’s neck may cause skin damage. Ranging from redness to pressure ulcers; this condition is commonly known as bed sores.
  • When possible reposition the collar on the pet’s neck every few hours.
  • Check the fit to prevent excessive pressure.
  • Always follow the instructions in your product operating guide.
  • Never connect a lead to the electronic collar; it will cause excessive pressure on the contact points within the collar.
  • Wash the dog’s neck area and the contacts of the collar weekly with a damp cloth.
  • You may need to trim your pet's hair in the area of the contact points for your system to function properly. However, never shave the dog’s neck; this may lead to a rash or infection.
  • Some pets have sensitivity to the contact points in the collar, a condition similar to bed sores in humans. You may find after some time that your pet is very tolerant of the collar. If so, you may relax some of these precautions.

  If a rash or sore is found on your pet:

  • Discontinue use of the collar until the skin has healed.
  • If the condition persists beyond 48 hours, see your veterinarian.

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• How old should my pet be before I start training?

  Pets should be at least 6 months old before you start training them to use a containment system.

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• My pet reacts strongly to the static stimulation and has become fearful.

  This can happen if the static stimulation level is too high. It is best to start on the lowest level of stimulation and increase the levels gradually. To solve your immediate issue, lower the static stimulation level and reassure your pet and offer praise.

  Make sure you are in control of the situation when your pet receives his/her first static stimulations (have him/her on a lead attached to a separate, non-metallic collar) and lead him into the pet area and praise him/her. If your pet remains fearful, suspend training and start again the next day. Make sure to end all training sessions on a positive note with lots of praise and play.

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• Where do I put my boundary flags?

  The flags should go just inside of the boundary zone, or along the wire for in-ground fences. To locate the boundary:

  1. Remove the receiver collar from your pet and ensure it is on.
  2. Hold the test light to the receiver collar contact points and walk into your garden.
  3. Hold the collar and test light at the level of your pet's height.
  4. Walk towards the warning zone until the receiver collar beeps and the test light tool illuminates. The higher the level of stimulation of the receiver collar, the brighter the light with flash. If you cannot see the light flash, increase the level of stimulation of the collar for the purpose of determining boundary flag location only.
  5. Place a boundary flag in the ground at the location where you hear the beep and see the light of the test light tool flash.
  6. Walk back into the pet area until the beeping stops.
  7. Repeat this process around your garden, placing flags every 3 metres until the containment area is fully marked with flags.

  

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• Will static stimulation harm my pet?

  The static stimulation is safe and harmless. It is effective enough to get your pet’s attention.

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• Will the containment system keep other pets out of my garden?

  No. Containment systems are only effective on pets who wear the receiver collar. Other animals can still enter your garden.

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• Can I use the remote trainer on aggressive dogs or use it to stop a dog from being aggressive?

  We do not recommend any of our products be used on aggressive dogs. If you are unsure if your dog is aggressive, please consult your veterinarian or a certified trainer.

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• Finding the best stimulation level

  Once you have correctly placed the receiver collar on your pet (see your manual or read How do I fit the collar?), it is time to find the stimulation level that is best for him. This is called the Recognition Level. At the right recognition level, you will notice only a slight change in your pet's behavior, such as looking around in curiosity, scratching at his collar, or flicking his ears. Follow these steps to find your pet's Recognition Level.

  1. Make sure the collar is delivering static stimulation by using the test light tool. If the test light tool doesn’t light up, see The test light does not come on when I press a button on the remote.
  2. Starting at the lowest level of stimulation, press the stimulation button continuously for 1 to 2 seconds.
  3. If your pet shows no reaction, repeat the stimulation level several times before moving up to the next stimulation level and repeating step 1.
  4. YOUR PET SHOULD NOT VOCALISE OR PANIC WHEN RECEIVING STIMULATION. If this happens, the stimulation level is too high. Go back to a lower stimulation level and repeat the process.
  5. Move up through the stimulation levels until your pet reliably responds to the stimulation but does not vocalize or panic.
  6. If you have tried the highest level of stimulation and your pet continues to show no response, check the fit of the collar or trim your pet’s fur where the contact points touch skin (read more about collar fit). Then go back to step 1 and repeat the process.
  7. If the stimulation is working but your dog is not responding, follow the steps under My dog is not responding to the remote trainer. If after completing all of these steps your dog still does not indicate he is feeling the stimulation, please contact our Customer Care Centre.

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• General training tips
  • Eliminate one misbehaviour or teach one obedience command at a time. If you move too fast with training, your pet may become confused.
  • Be consistent. Communicate with your pet using the remote trainer every time he misbehaves.
  • Unless you can supervise him, it is recommended that you restrict your pet from situations in which he has a history of misbehaving. However, setting up a situation as a training session can dramatically improve your chances of success.
  • If your pet reacts to the tones by hiding or acting fearful, redirect his attention to a simple and appropriate behavior, such as the sit command.
  • Pets should be at least 6 months old before using the Trainer.
  • Only let responsible family members use the Trainer. It is not a toy.
  • Other pets in hearing range will be affected by the training tones. Therefore, training sessions should be conducted out of hearing range of other pets.
  • Never use the Remote Trainer to correct or eliminate any form of aggressive behaviour. If you are unsure if your dog is aggressive, please consult your veterinarian or a certified trainer.

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• How do I fit the collar?
  • Make sure that the battery is not installed in the receiver collar.
  • Start with your pet standing comfortably.
  • Center the contact points underneath your pet’s neck, touching the skin. If your pet has a long or thick coat, consider using the long contact points to reach through the fur.  These can be purchased by contacting our Customer Care Center. You might need to trim the hair around the contact points to make sure that contact is consistent.
  • Check the tightness of the receiver collar by inserting one finger between the end of a contact point and your pet’s neck. The fit should be snug but not constricting.
  • Allow your pet to wear the collar for several minutes then recheck the fit. Check the fit again as your pet becomes more comfortable with the receiver collar.
  • If the collar strap is too long, you can trim the collar. Mark the desired length of the receiver collar with a pen. Allow for growth if your pet is young or grows a thick winter coat.
  • Remove the receiver collar from your pet and cut off the excess.
  • If your receiver has a nylon strap, seal the edge of the cut collar by applying a flame along the frayed edge.

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• How do I train my dog?

  Download this guide or watch this video.

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• Is the stimulation safe and humane?

  While the static stimulation is unpleasant, it is harmless to your pet. Electronic training devices require interaction and training from the owner to achieve the desired results.

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• My dog is not responding to the remote trainer.
  • Verify collar is turned on.
  • Check batteries or check battery charge of collar and transmitter.
  • Check the stimulation on the collar with the test light tool (for collars with static stimulation).
  • Ensure proper collar fit. Place the receiver on dog's neck close to the ears. Fit should be snug, allowing 1 finger to fit between the end of the contact point and the dog's neck.
  • Make sure the collar is set to the right stimulation level or mode.
  • Make sure the transmitter is set to the right stimulation level or mode. Maybe a mode has been chosen for more than 1 dog, while you only have 1 dog/collar synchronised.
  • Increase the stimulation level. You can use the Boost button if your system has one.
  • Synchronise collar and transmitter if necessary.
  • Your dog may have become used to the stimulation. Stop using the collar for a few weeks, or switch to tone mode if your collar has this feature.
  • Make sure your dog is within range of the system. Test the system standing very close to your dog, then gradually increase the distance to find the system’s maximum range in that location.
  • If your dog is not responding but the collar is working, repeat training steps. Some dogs benefit from an occasional reminder lesson.
  • If there was a specific incident when your dog failed to respond to the trainer, consider the situation. Was there a distraction, such as a rabbit running by or a barking dog? You might need to use a higher level of stimulation in these cases, and you can use lower levels when your dog is more relaxed or less distracted.

  For collars with static stimulation

  • Make sure the contact probes are making skin contact. This is where the static stimulation is delivered.
  • Trim your dog's fur where the contact points touch the neck. Do not shave your dog’s fur.
  • Purchase long contact points or use the ones included with your system if applicable.

  For collars with spray stimulation

  Make sure there is enough spray in the collar.

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• What age does my dog need to be before I can start using the remote trainer?

  Your pet should be at least 6 months old and be able to recognise basic obedience commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘stay’.

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• What do I need to do if my pet’s neck becomes red and irritated?

  This very rare incident occurs when the collar is worn longer than designed. We recommend it not be worn more than 12 hours per day. Please discontinue using the collar until the affected area has healed and consult a veterinarian if necessary. This situation is not limited to static stimulation collars; it can happen with any collar your pet wears for too long.

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