Horse Fencing Options

There are several types of fencing that can be used for your horse's safety and comfort. Each have their own functions, benefits and downfalls. Here is a look at the three most common fencing options for your pastures or barnyard.

Keeping your horse safe in his environment goes a long way toward his overall health. Fencing that is old, rusted, damaged, splintered, falling part or just plain unsafe needs to be replaced for the overall safety of your equine pal. The last thing you want is an emergency vet bill due to a rusty nail embedded in a hoof, or a call from the neighbors who have just had to catch your horse for the third time this week.

Electric fencing has been called the horseman's best friend due to its versatile nature. It is visible and a safe, equine-friendly fence option. Electric fences come in a variety of colors, like white and neon orange, and come in the many forms, such as rope, thin or thick ribbon and even smooth wire. Smooth wire is not recommended, however, because it is hard to see, unless flags are tied to it. There is also the hazard of smooth wire slicing into legs and shoulders. Electric fencing is easily breakable and can rot in the sun after long exposure.

Wood fencing is widely used and inexpensive. It can be cut and fitted to any acre size or shape. Wooden fence can be adjusted to two or three rails, painted to match your barn or house and is durable enough to keep even the rowdiest horses in. However, wooden fences require upkeep. Wooden fences can splinter and rot and paint can peel. Nails can come loose and snag eyes, or fall out and get stuck in hooves.

PVC fencing is perhaps the most recognized fencing for horses. It is hard and durable, yet bendable material that gives a professional look to pastures and barnyards. PVC looks pretty and is easy to maintain with no need for painting. However, it does not stand up as well as wood fence to the push of a horse. PVC dents with enough pressure.

There are dangers with all types of fencing. No fence is fool proof, and accidents happen. Walk your fences a few times a week looking to for weak spots, broken wires, loose nails and anything that could be a danger to your horse. No fencing is indestructible. It is only as safe as you make it.