How to Protect Pets From Foxes

Foxes are one of the many woodland creatures commonly found in backyards and barns of homes located close to wooded areas. Intelligent and bold, these crafty creatures are very resourceful when it comes to finding food sources, so knowing how to protect your pets from foxes is important. Here are some tips for protecting animals and pets from foxes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Light up your backyard. Foxes are stealthy and less likely to try to infiltrate an area that is well lit. Outside lighting makes it more difficult for foxes to sneak up on prey, and they will move on to easier targets. Install an outside light with a motion sensor on your barn or pet enclosure. A light will come on when foxes and other predators approach, alerting you to their presence and scaring them off at the same time.
   
   
2. Consider traps. There are many humane animal traps designed to ensnare animals like foxes and raccoons that can be placed around your property to help protect your pets. These humane traps enclose the animal and keep it safely caged while you contact an animal control officer for assistance. Make sure to set these traps where your pets or any small children cannot reach them.
3. Secure enclosed areas well. A simple fence will deter foxes and other predators, but it will not necessarily stop them. Foxes dig under shallow fences or chew holes through flimsy ones to get to animals. If you have fenced-in enclosures to protect your pets, use wooden or heavy-duty aluminum fencing and make sure it is sunk deep into the ground.
4. Clean up after your pets. Foxes are more likely to invade your property if the scent of other animals is heavy. Clean up animal waste on a regular basis and make sure your pet enclosure or barn is clean and sanitary. Dispose of waste far away from the area that your pets inhabit. Do not leave food out for your pets overnight, as this attracts foxes and other scavenger animals.
5. Do your homework. The best way to protect your pets against foxes and other animals is to know what animals populate the area you live in and what times of the year they are most likely to become a problem. Talk to your local animal control or wildlife office and find out what sorts of foxes and other animals are in your area. Learn what times of year they typically breed and come out of hibernation; foxes are most desperate for food right after coming out of hibernation and when they have pups to feed so being aware of these key times of year will help you be prepared.