Horse Fencing Involves Special Design Requirements
Throughout the past couple of decades more and more people have relocated away from the suburbs and into the outlying areas where the properties are larger and more private. A number of these homeowners decide to start keeping horses, but wonder how they can contain them on their property. Because horse fencing is quite different from other types of fences, you need to understand the design requirements before you proceed with construction.
Horse fencing involves some special challenges. These animals are strong; however, they can also be spooked quite easily. A panicked horse will take off at a full gallop if it senses danger, whether from a person, another horse, a strange dog, or a loud noise. When they’re in this state of mind, they frequently aren’t aware of their immediate surroundings. It’s important that you keep these considerations in mind as you design your horse fencing.
Horse fencing needs to be able to stand firm against a considerable amount of force. A horse isn’t generally inclined to knock over a fence just to move to a more desirable location. But if it’s frightened it can butt, kick or attempt to jump it in order to escape.
A fence constructed of high tensile steel will be able to withstand this kind of assault. Chain link with a gauge designed for horse fencing is an ideal option. You also need very strong and sturdy fence posts. With standard residential fences, the depth of the post hole is usually about one third the length of the post. With horse fencing, you need to increase that depth, unless you’re using extra concrete or unusual construction techniques.
In order to raise the safety factor and reduce the chances of costly repairs, make sure the fence is highly visible to the horses. These animals have a tendency to gaze into the distance in order to observe oncoming dangers. So their fence needs to be very evident even at close range.
You can handle that concern with a basic wooden post and rail fence. This is the traditional design that you’ve seen in countless movies and TV programs. And it’s still in use today because it does the job. Part of the reason for its popularity is the lower cost. But no practical horse owner would choose it for that reason alone. Horses are far too valuable, both financially and emotionally.
Horse fencing should be at least four to five feet in height. The clearance of the lowest section should not exceed twelve inches, but not be less than eight. That means that a foal won’t be able to slide through, but there’s no chance of trapping a hoof.
The shape of the fence is another important design element. There’s a reason why most horse fencing has almost no corners. Just like many other animals, horses have dominance issues. But they’re not likely to settle their disputes just by talking it out. A very aggressive horse will often attempt to corner an adversary. But if there aren’t any corners, the other horse is able to avoid entrapment, allowing for a graceful exit for both animals.
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