Systems for containing, training, and tracking pets utilize electronic pet tags or collars, including IR reception and two-way RF communication. An aimable IR directional zone defining unit includes selectable different modes of operation relative to a pet collar or tag. A RF base station arranged to communicate with an pet collar or tar includes is arranged to automatically communicate with at least one terminal responsive to a receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the pet, behavior of the pet, and proximity of the pet to the base station. The base station may further generate a user-perceptible alarm signal. A handheld remote controller adapted to communicate with the electronic pet collar or tag includes memory for digital media files, and an audio output element to deliver audible pet training instructions from the memory element.
