Horse Fencing
Greg Sunner
Here
at the Penn State
horse facilities there are a number of different fences. The following is a detailed description depicting
the pros and cons of the fencing located at Penn
State’s horse
facilities.
High Tensile Fencing:
High
tensile fencing can be found at the majority of Penn
State’s facilities. It
is both economical and efficient. The
main reasons that this particular type of fencing is efficient result from
few fence-posts being needed, and the ability to cover large areas. High tensile fencing is known for its
durability in the respect that it will last for up to thirty years. Along with this fencing having superior
longevity it also has been tested to have a breaking strength up to 1800
pounds. As a result of the tension
placed upon the fence wires horses are noted to virtually “bounce off” when
coming into contact. An additional advantage
is that high tensile fencing can also be electrified. In fact, some or all of the strands should
be electrified because the benefit of breaking strength has also led to many
problems with horses getting severe wounds should they get a leg over any of
the strands. It is also important to
note that the bottom wire of the fence should be 10-12 inches from the
ground. If this wire is located
closer to the ground horses are more likely to become entangled in the
fence. Another concern associated with
high tensile fencing is the fact that it can be difficult to see, however
this can be remedied by tying flags or having a board along the top wire of
the fence.
Mesh
Fencing:
 
Above are pictures of mesh fencing that can be seen at Penn
State’s stallion
pastures. Here it can be noted that
the fences are high, though our taller stallions can reach to the top – the
reason for a single strand of electric fence running along the top. Also the fencing is strong with small mesh
openings which allow for the horses to come in contact with the fence without
putting a foot through the wire and sustaining any significant injury. The above left picture shows mesh fencing,
which has been bent, most likely from contact. However, it is easy to see how the fence bends, as opposed to
breaking. After bending takes place
the fences can also be mended to a certain degree to return to their previous
condition.
In the above picture it can be
noted how mesh fencing can become dangerous without routine maintenance. This picture was taken between two
adjacent pastures where horses could have easily injured themselves. This fence has since been replaced
   
Gates:
Above are pictures of gates
leading into pastures at Penn
State. Here it can be seen how all the gates
operate on hinges and may open in either direction. This allows for easier and safer movement in and out of the
pastures. The gates have the
capabilities of blocking the driveway if needed. The mesh gate is secure but does not offer the strength and
ease of use as the other.
Pasture
Fencing:
In the above picture two
pastures are adjacent to each other.
This will lead horses to spend more time along the fence, and
therefore run a greater risk of injury.
For example a horse that spends time near the fence is more likely to
become entangled in the fence. Each
pasture having its own fence, creating an alley way between, can however
decrease this risk. This space need
only be large enough for a lawnmower to fit through or to lead a horse
through comfortably.
Murphy,
James. Horse Industry Handbook
“Fencing for Horses.”
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The content
of this web page was produced by students in our Advanced Horse Production
and Management (AnSc 407, 2004) course at Penn State. This page is not a
product of the Equine Science Team. As such, it is intended for educational
and entertainment purposes only. For recommendations specific to your farm or
horse you should consult your equine veterinarian, local horse professional
or County Extension Agent.
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and the Pennsylvania Legislature. T. R. Alter, Director of Cooperative
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