As a goat owner, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right fencing. Not only does it keep your goats safe and secure, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing they won't escape and cause damage to your property or wander onto the road. In this article, we will discuss the best fencing options for goats in 2022.
Goats are clever and curious animals that can be quite mischievous. They are known for their ability to climb, jump, and squeeze through small spaces. Therefore, when choosing fencing for goats, it is important to consider factors such as height, strength, visibility, and maintenance requirements.
Factors to consider when choosing fencing for goats
1. Height
Goats are natural climbers and jumpers, so the fencing should be at least 4-5 feet tall to prevent them from jumping over. If you have particularly athletic goats, you may want to consider a fence that's higher than 5 feet. Taller fences will also prevent predators from jumping over and attacking your goats.
2. Strength
Goats are strong animals and can easily push against a weak fence. The fencing should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight and strength of your goats. A weak fence can be easily damaged by goats rubbing against it or trying to escape.
3. Visibility
Goats are curious animals and like to see what's on the other side of the fence. A fence with good visibility will prevent them from feeling trapped and reduce the likelihood of them trying to escape. A fence that is too opaque can cause stress and anxiety in goats.
4. Maintenance
Fencing requires maintenance, and you should choose a fence that's easy to maintain and repair. A fence that's easy to repair will save you time and money in the long run. You should also consider the cost of maintenance, such as replacing damaged sections or repairing broken posts.
Now that you know what to consider when choosing fencing for goats, let's discuss the different types of fencing available.
Types of fencing for goats
1. Woven wire fencing
Woven wire fencing is a popular choice among goat owners. It's sturdy, durable, and can withstand the weight and strength of goats. The fencing is available in different heights, and you can choose the height that's appropriate for your goats. The woven wire fencing is also available in different sizes, with the smaller mesh size being better for kid goats.
Woven wire fencing is also easy to maintain and repair. If a section of the fence is damaged, you can easily replace it without having to replace the entire fence. The fence is also relatively affordable and has a long lifespan.
2. Electric fencing
Electric fencing is another popular choice among goat owners. It's affordable, easy to install, and effective at keeping goats contained. The fencing works by delivering a shock to the goat when it comes into contact with the wire.
Electric fencing is also portable, which makes it ideal for temporary fencing. If you need to move your goats to a different area, you can easily move the fence with them. Electric fencing is also easy to maintain and repair, and you can easily replace any damaged components.
However, electric fencing can be dangerous if not installed or used correctly. You should always follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that the fence is properly grounded.
3. Chain-link fencing
Chain-link fencing is a durable and sturdy option for goat fencing. It's also relatively affordable and easy to install. The fencing is available in different heights and can be customized to fit the needs of your goats. Chain-link fencing is also easy to clean and maintain.
However, chain-link fencing may not be the best option for all goat owners. The fencing can be difficult to repair, and goats can get their legs caught in the links, leading to injuries. Chain-link fencing is also not the most attractive option and may not be suitable for all properties.
4. Barbed wire fencing
Barbed wire fencing is not recommended for goats. The fencing poses a risk of injury to the goats and can cause serious harm. The sharp barbs can easily cause cuts and punctures on the goats' skin, leading to infections and other health problems.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fencing for goats is essential for their safety and your peace of mind. When choosing fencing, consider the height, strength, visibility, and maintenance requirements. Woven wire fencing and electric fencing are popular options among goat owners, while chain-link fencing is a durable option. However, barbed wire fencing should be avoided.
Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your fencing to ensure it remains safe and effective. By choosing the right fencing and properly maintaining it, you can keep your goats safe and secure.
