Thank you, one and all!!
I'll give those a try and let you know how it all works out.
Yes, the switch is to select for the size of area (length of boundary wire attached) to the pet fence. It's meant for the wire to be shallow buried, and the dog's collar is triggered when in proximity to the wire. Actually belongs to my daughter, and they just had it strung along the vinyl rail fence around the property line. I'm wondering if it may have caught some lightening, being exposed above ground.
Also, I'm sorry to be so slow to respond, but my boss seems to think I need to show up on Saturdays sometimes.
Again, thank you very much.