If you’ve ever tried using a temporary electric fence for goats, you know how challenging it can be to find one that actually works. The market is flooded with options that claim to be suitable for goats, but do they live up to their promises? Or are you left frustrated and searching for a better solution?
In this guide, we’ll explore the best temporary electric fences for goats and help you navigate through the sea of options. From finding the right materials and design to setting up your fence effectively, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure the safety and containment of your goats. Say goodbye to unreliable fences and hello to peace of mind!
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right temporary electric fence for goats is crucial for their safety and containment.
- Closely-spaced fence wires, starting low to the ground and placed high enough to prevent jumping, are recommended for goat fencing.
- High-tensile or T-posts combined with aluminum or steel wire are excellent options for goat fencing.
- A fence charger that maintains 4,000 – 5,000 volts on the fence line is needed to safely contain goats.
- Gallagher offers reliable and effective electric fence options specifically designed for goats, including permanent, mobile, and electric netting solutions.
Setting Up an Electric Fence for Goats
Setting up an electric fence for goats is a practical and efficient way to ensure their safety and security. With the right materials and proper installation, you can create a reliable barrier that prevents goats from wandering off and keeps potential predators at bay.
To begin, gather the following supplies:
- T-posts
- Galvanized steel wire or aluminum wire
- T-post insulators
- Corner post insulators
- An electric fence charger
- Grounding rods
Start by digging holes for the T-posts, spacing them about 12-16 feet apart. As you pound the posts into the ground, attach the T-post insulators to them. These insulators will hold the wire securely in place.
Next, string the galvanized steel or aluminum wire tightly between the T-posts, ensuring it is placed every 9 inches. For corners, use corner post insulators to maintain a smooth and continuous wire flow. This will prevent any gaps or weak spots in the fence.
Once the wire is installed, secure it to the end insulator, and connect the fence charger to the wire according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The electric fence charger is what provides the necessary voltage to deter the goats from approaching the fence.
Pros and Cons of Electric Fences for Goats
There are several advantages to using an electric fence for goats:
- Cost-effectiveness: Electric fences are generally more affordable than traditional fencing options.
- Easy installation: Compared to other types of fences, electric fences are relatively simple to set up.
- Inability to climb or push: Goats are notorious for their ability to climb and push against fences. An electric fence eliminates this behavior.
However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks as well:
- Psychological barrier: Some goats may be initially hesitant to approach an electric fence, as they can sense the mild shock it delivers. This can affect their grazing behavior and overall comfort level.
- Potential for fence failures: Electric fences rely on a consistent power supply. If there are any issues with the charger or the wiring, the fence may fail to deliver an effective shock.
Overall, electric fences provide an effective solution for goat owners looking to contain their animals and protect them from predators. With proper installation and regular maintenance, an electric fence can offer a secure and reliable boundary for your goats to thrive within.
Gallagher Electric Fence Options for Goats
When it comes to keeping your goats securely contained, look no further than Gallagher’s electric fence options. Gallagher offers a range of solutions specifically designed for goats, ensuring the safety and well-being of your animals.
For a permanent fence, Gallagher recommends the use of their Insultimber High Tensile wire. This wire, combined with a 1-meter-high batten every 10 meters and a fixed post every 40 meters, creates a durable and secure barrier. Your goats will be safely contained, without the risk of escape or intrusion.
If you prefer a mobile or temporary solution, Gallagher has you covered with their SmartFence. This all-in-one system includes posts, reels, and wires that can be easily assembled and dismantled as needed. It offers convenience and flexibility, allowing you to quickly set up a temporary enclosure or grazing area for your goats.
Additionally, Gallagher provides electric netting options for goats. These nettings are specially designed to be easy to move around, making them ideal for rotational grazing or creating temporary grazing areas. With Gallagher’s electric netting, you can efficiently manage your goats’ access to different portions of your land, promoting healthier grazing practices.
Do you already have an existing fence that needs electrifying? Gallagher has you covered there too. They offer distance insulators that allow you to easily electrify existing fences, whether they are made of wood, mesh, or other materials. With Gallagher’s insulators, you can improve the effectiveness of your current fence and provide an additional layer of protection for your goats.
When it comes to goat electric fencing, Gallagher provides reliable and effective options that cater to the unique needs of goat owners. With their products, you can ensure the safety and security of your goats while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of electric fencing. Choose Gallagher for peace of mind and quality assurance.
FAQ
What should I consider when designing a fence for goats?
When designing a fence for goats, it is important to consider their characteristics, such as coat thickness and behavior, as well as the purpose of the fence – keeping animals in or keeping predators out. It is recommended to use closely-spaced fence wires, starting low to the ground and placed high enough to prevent jumping. High-tensile or T-posts combined with aluminum or steel wire are both excellent options for goat fencing. A fence charger that maintains 4,000 – 5,000 volts on the fence line is needed to safely contain goats. In areas where goats may be attacked by predators, a minimum of 5,000 volts on the fence line is required. Similar considerations can be made for sheep fencing.
What materials do I need to set up an electric fence for goats?
To set up an electric fence for goats, you will need T-posts, galvanized steel wire or aluminum wire, T-post insulators, corner post insulators, an electric fence charger, and grounding rods. The T-posts should be dug in about 12-16 feet apart, and insulators should be attached as the posts are pounded in. The wire should be strung tightly, placing it every 9 inches, and corner insulators should be used for corners. The wire should be secured to the end insulator, and the fence charger should be connected according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What are the pros and cons of using an electric fence for goats?
Pros of using an electric fence for goats include cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and the inability for goats to climb or push on the fence. The psychological barrier aspect of electric fences also deters animals from attempting to cross the fence. However, cons of electric fences include the potential for fence failures due to power outages or vegetation interference, as well as the need for regular maintenance and monitoring.
What electric fence options does Gallagher offer for goats?
Gallagher offers a range of electric fence options specifically designed for goats. For a permanent fence, Gallagher recommends the use of Insultimber High Tensile wire with a 1-meter-high batten every 10 meters and a fixed post every 40 meters. This provides a durable and secure barrier for keeping goats safely contained. For a mobile or temporary solution, Gallagher offers the SmartFence, an all-in-one system of posts, reels, and wires that can be assembled and dismantled quickly. Gallagher also provides electric netting options for goats, which are easy to move around and can be used for rotational grazing or creating temporary grazing areas. Additionally, Gallagher offers distance insulators for electrifying existing fences, whether they are wooden, mesh, or made of other materials. These insulators allow for easy electrification and improvement of existing barriers.