Baggs

With more than 25,000 horses in Denton County, fencing is important for many reasons.

Obviously, the owner’s goal is to safely contain and manage the horses. However, other decisions may play a role in the fencing types chosen.

Also, consider your ability to maintain the fence and the efficiency of design for handling horses with less labor. Horses are stressed less when handled infrequently and effortlessly. Horse pastures should have rounded corners; square corners create traps in which a horse can be kicked or bitten by other horses sharing the same pasture.

The key to good fencing is proper construction and adequate maintenance. The cost of the materials as well as the aesthetics of the finished product must also be a part of the decision-making process. Remember that while aesthetics might be considered, it should never overrule the need for safe, functional fencing.

How high should a fence be? Perimeter pasture fences should be 5 feet high, and in some situations, 6 feet or more with taller breeds. A 5-foot fence is the same height as a 15-hand horse.

For paddocks and pens, a good general rule is to put the tops of the fence at eye level with the horse. This will discourage fighting with other horses. Stallion paddocks will need to be double fenced with a lane between paddocks. Dividing fences between pastures can be 4 1/2 feet high if the horses are not prone to fighting between pastures.

There are many types of materials that can be used in fencing.

Wooden fencing is popular but expensive, and may involve high maintenance costs. It is most practical for stallion paddocks, show and sale paddocks and turnout pens and for aesthetic effects. Boards should always be on the inside (the horse side) for safety. Wooden posts should be at least 4 inches in diameter and 6 to 8 feet apart (using 12- to 16-foot boards). Joints should be staggered. The use of hardwood rails can help prevent the horse from chewing and minimize rail slippage.

Wire fencing can also be used and is a strong choice. The best wire for horses is a five-diamond mesh wire.

It should also be placed on the horse side of the fence. Barbed wire is not recommended for horses for safety reasons. Twisted barless wire can be used.

Five strands of wire should be stretched tight and attached to the post with long staples. A top board is advisable. If not, attach a plastic stringer in each section for visibility.

Rubber fencing is used frequently, especially for safety reasons. It can be expensive, but wears extremely well. It will sag if not installed properly.

Whatever the material used, make sure the fencing is safe for the horse and maintained regularly.