Foal-Proof Fencing

Share

Credit: Horse&Rider File Photo.

Fence materials: Wood boards and rails, synthetic rails and certain types of woven wire are safest. High-tensile wire, monofilament and rubber-strip fencing can entangle your foal. 

Height: Use your mare’s eye level as a guideline. If she’s 15 hands high, your fencing should be about 5 feet tall to contain your foal safely.

Corners: Fence your enclosure with rounded (not square) corners to avoid injury.

Rail spacing: Space boards (or rails) 8 to 9 inches apart—close enough to keep your foal in, but far enough to prevent his head and legs from getting stuck. Set the bottom board or rail 1 foot off the ground. Fill in wide gaps with woven wire.

Woven wire: Use V-mesh or diamond-mesh wire; foals can wedge their feet into 2-by-4-inch–square (or non-climb) mesh. Make sure wire is woven, not welded, for longer wear and to avoid sharp edges.

Maintenance: Check for loose rails, wobbly posts, or sharp protrusions.

POSTED IN

NEWSLETTER

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Country*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Stay in the Loop

Gain access to exclusive Western training tips, veterinary advice, horsekeeping insights, and personality and lifestyle content.
HR_22FALL_Cover