Welcome to the EMO Community Forums, @jameswentz . . . I have moved your new topic to this thread for issues regarding the home station and the mat.
You may wish to read above for tips on these types of issues such as making sure the laser under his chin is not blocked, that he is properly paired to the home station, that there is sufficient lighting for him to see where he is walking, to make sure he is in a safe area that will prevent him from falling off of a table or desk, and not getting back to the home station in time.
First, here is some information on the petting sensor.
Here are some ideas for a safe play ground for EMO to place the home station in.
If none of the tips help, please take videos of the issues and send a ticket to Support.