Keep your horses safe and secure with the proper fencing.

"The grass is greener on the other side" takes on very realistic meaning for horses.

During your daily chores, you will probably encounter areas of your horse’s fence that need some attention. And the longer you wait, the more that weather and your horses will continue to take their toll.

There are several ways to improve the condition of an existing fence system, but you need to know where to start. First, you need to evaluate the fence, making note about the condition of the posts, wire and brackets. Prioritize the problems needing immediate attention to ensure the safe containment of your horses.

You may also want to discuss the following topics with an expert in order to provide the safest and most appropriate fencing system for your animals:

• Adding electric to a split rail “broken” fence system
• Add a top site rail to woven wire fence.
• Test existing electric mesh and electric wire systems.
• Ensure proper post spacing

A properly constructed, professionally installed fence will last longer, look nicer and protect horses better than one that is not installed correctly.

Fencing Solutions for Dry Lot Areas

“The grass is greener on the other side” takes on very realistic meaning for your horse. In order to get to the grass your horse can see or smell, he may literally lie down or push through your fence rails to get to fresh grazing, consequently making the fence a “high traffic” zone that requires more attention.

Rotational grazing is one of the best long-term solutions, if the land is available. If your circumstance cannot accommodate rotational grazing, a fence system should be put in place that can hold up to your horses’ attempts to push through it. Flexible rails with high break strength are a good option. Similarly, flexible rails with high tensile wire have “memory” and will flex back to their original shape. In some cases, horses can become so abusive to the fence that it may require the addition of electric wire to protect the investment you have in the fence.

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Selecting the Perfect Posts

Posts are the backbone of any fence system. The type of soil you have to work with will ultimately affect installation, maintenance and longevity of your fence.

The first consideration is what type of fence you plan to install as this will affect the type of posts you select. For instance, electric fencing can use wood posts, metal T-posts (with sleeves) or fiberglass rods. Flexible fencing generally calls for four to six inch round, pressure-treated pine posts or solid plastic posts.

Next, determine the content of your soil. Rock or hard clay may require the use of a special auger. Continually damp conditions or sandy soil may generate a need for extra bracing or setting posts in concrete.

Finally, evaluate installation requirements and related expense. It’s easier and a lot less costly to make a change during the planning stage.

A horse may spend 50 to 100 percent of his time in a pasture surrounded by fence, so it is vital to maintain a safe, strong living space for your equine friends.

For a fun, interactive refresher course in horse safety, try the game provided at the link below!

http://www.funtrivia.com/trivia-quiz/Animals/Simple-Horse-Care-97417.html

Trevor Ashcraft
AQHA Youth Intern