A system for monitoring activity along a wire-bounded perimeter. The monitoring system includes a single-conductor wire which bounds a protected area. In communication with the wire at predetermined locations is a series of sensors which are either physically or inductively coupled to the wire. The sensors measure activity the wire bounded perimeter. The measured activity is analyzed by the transponder unit which categorizes the activity. The monitoring system can operate as a stand-alone system or be integrated with a conventional residential and light commercial security system. Further, the monitoring system may incorporate a pet containment transmitter for use with an electronic pet containment system.