Escapee pets: now you see them...

This video of an enterprising Beagle escaping its enclosure reminds me of some of the 'Houdini' pets I've known as a vet nurse.

Oscar, a striking black Oriental cat, didn't like being left alone and would go in search of human company. At various times he was returned to our clinic by concerned people who had found him at the local shops, lapping up attention on the counter at a video store, and once on a public bus.

Nikita, a brown kelpie, was storm phobic and always jumped the fence at the first sound of thunder. Typically she would be picked up on the road, desperate to jump into the first open car door so she could enjoy the comfort of human companionship.

My own two dogs went through a phase of shooting out the front door every time they could. Gleefully oblivious to all our calls, whistles and threats, they'd usually go down to the lake for a swim, and then bring themselves home. On one of their escapades Ben the Labrador, never very bright, crossed a main road and ran into the side of a passing car. Luckily, he wasn't injured, but the panel beater's bill we received from the driver made him canine non grata for a while.

Escapee pets are vulnerable to theft, cars and attacks from other animals, and can make themselves very unpopular by investigating rubbish bins, hunting wildlife, pooing on lawns etc. A securely fenced yard, with room to run, is a must for dogs (the kind of enclosure shown in the video is clearly inappropriate), and for cats a purpose-built enclosure is a great way to ensure the safety of both your cat and local wildlife.

The lonely, bored pet is far more likely to escape - a companion, plenty of toys and environmental enrichment and of course, lots of attention can help. In many areas there are now 'doggy day care' facilities, as well as individuals who’ll walk your dog or visit your cat while you’re at work. A little planning should prevent your pet from adopting the nickname ‘Steve McQueen’.