If you live on a farm with livestock, one of the most important investments you can make is fencing your farm. The wrong type of fence, or even a damaged fence, can cause a variety of problems. Not only does it cause your property to appear rundown, it can also lead to financial loss if your animals get out or if predators find a way in. As important as it is to keep your animals in, it is just as important to keep foxes, wolves, and other predators out.
Different Animals, Different Fences
Different types of animals require different types of fences. Cows and horses require a sturdy fence that will stay in place if it’s leaned on or brushed against. Goats require a fence that is high enough to keep them from finding a way over it. Goats climb and jump from one roof or surface to another with great agility making it difficult to keep them inside a pen. Pigs, chickens and other animals that move or dig in the dirt can find their way under a fence in no time at all if they aren’t closely watched.
Timely Repair and Replacement
Livestock of any size can be hard on fencing. Horses will lean across or try to stick their head through so they can reach the lush grass on the outside of their corral. They will push against the fence to attempt to scratch an itch or simply because they are bored. Over time, this can cause your fence to become loose or to lean in one direction or another. If the fence is made of wood, the rails may become worn and start to weaken. The weaker the fencing becomes, the more it will cost to repair. If the fencing has not been repaired for quite some time, you may end up having to replace it completely.
Less Risk of Loss
If your fencing is damaged, it is much easier for livestock to break through. If this occurs, you can experience several types of damage. If an animal wanders into the roadway, they can cause an accident resulting in both injuries to themselves and property damage to the vehicle. They can also injure themselves as they try to work their way through the fencing. Horses and cows alike, have been known to break a leg or two by getting caught in the wires of the fence. In most cases, this results in the animal having to be put down. Not only do you lose the animal, but you also lose whatever product you would have received from them, sometimes doubling the amount of your loss.
Farm fencing is an essential part of any agricultural operation. It’s an investment that is well worth the money spent as long as it is properly maintained and repaired as often as necessary. Much like the fencing that surrounds your home, it’s important to keep your farm fencing looking as sharp as possible. It shows that you take pride in your operation and that you know the true value of your livestock.
For a free fence quote, Central Fence has got you covered – you can contact us at 1-800-221-6425 or head over to our website!
