A method and system is provided that controls pet access to various different locations and/or objects. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an automated system whereby pets are identified by sensors and allowed access to various locations and/or objects, such as food contained within a feeder dish for example. The feeder further includes a door structure and control system that keeps the pet safe through the use of a door which is made up of several repeated panels which together move to cover the food when access is not allowed and having a jam sensing system in order to protect pets from being caught in the closing door. Further embodiments employ the system to control access to litter boxes, pet toys, pet watering systems, pet gate access, pet containment systems or pet doors.