Abstract: Devices and methods for monitoring operation of components of animal containment systems, and for notifying responsible parties of faults, status, or changes of status of such systems are provided. A device for monitoring operation of an animal containment boundary defining apparatus detects presence, absence, magnitude, and/or change in magnitude of at least one electrical signal in a boundary defining wire, and generates a responsive alarm signal. Devices for affecting operation of a premises security system with a motion detector involve use of a secondary detector to detect presence, absence, proximity, status, or movement of an animal tag or collar. A secondary animal tag or collar with detection and communication capability may be used to detect operation status or failure of a primary animal tag or collar arranged to cooperate with an animal containment boundary defining element (e.g., buried wire).