Traditional Horse Fences:What are my alternatives?

Horses are majestic creatures and require proper fencing for their safety and well-being. Typically, traditional horse fencing can be costly, difficult to maintain, and even dangerous. Though all styles of fencing have proven generally effective in corralling the horse; we want to briefly discuss the negatives of wire and board fencing which need thorough consideration prior to installation.

Expense

The classic and traditionalboard fence has long been a beacon of horse ownership. If you’ve ever received a quote for board fence installation, you may have been startled by the price. Board fencingcan be quite costly to install and maintain. Since 2020, theaveragecost of lumber has more than tripled! … not to mentionthe labor required to install.

Wire fencing is a cheaper approach to horse fencing; though it presents dangers to your horse that we will discuss further on.

Maintenance

Maintenance of a board fence includes paint and/or a stain and replacement of old boards. This can be cumbersome and time-consuming, as the wood needs to be treated every 2-3 yearsto prevent rot and decay.This labor-intensive task can add to the overall cost as time progresses. Further, as boards weather or are kicked/broken,theycan become a safety hazard for horses if not replaced in a timely manner.

Wire, if not coated with zinc, can rust and corrode over time. This rust can be a hazard for your horse should they rub against it and scrape themselves.

Installation

Installing traditional horse fences can be strenuous and demanding. Board, and wire fences, require precise measurements to align properly; along with the useof heavy equipment to cut posts and boards. This can make the installation process a challenging and expensive task, especially if you do not have the necessary equipment or experience.

Present Dangers

Traditional horse fences can be dangerous to horses. Wire, when ran into or through, can cause serious lacerations and open wounds.Wooden rail fences, in particular, can break or splinter if a horse runs into them;additionally, if a horse gets a hoof caught in a wooden rail fence, it can become trapped, leading to serious injury.

Alternative and Affordable Fencing Options

• Tape fencing: This type of fencing is an affordable and effective way to contain horses. It is also easy to install and maintain. Check out Maxi-Grunt, (Cameo’s electric line) - NOT a tape, better for sight lines.

• Wire or Wire Mesh Fencing: Cheap and readily available, this style of fencing can cause horses serious injury, even death. We do not recommend metal as an option for horse fencing.

• Cameo Fencing: awhite line monofilament designed specifically to be safe horse fencing. At 4mm wide (approximately 1/8") Cameo fencing is durable, flexible, and a breeze to install!

If you are looking for a safe and more affordable alternative to traditional horse fencing, consider Cameo. Cameo fencing is a durable and lightweight fencingoption that is easy to install (simply unroll) and maintain (no paint/stain necessary).Cameo can be secured to wood, vinyl, or t-posts (and/orexisting fence posts) with the use of our post insulators. Cameo requires no experience and can beinstalled quickly without the use of large tools - a true DIY fence!

How is this possible?Cameo Fencing is made of a flexible monofilament line that will not splinter; instead it will stretch - with 1200 pounds of breaking strength per line - and gently nudge your horse back to pasture. Yet, for your horses safety, the line is able to break but will not lacerate the horses skin or coat and can easily be put back together with the use of a Cameo Link.

Is this a “new” style of fencing? NO! Cameo has been installed, around the world, for over 30 years. Take a look at some of the testimonials on our website or FaceBook page. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the number of customers who’ve utilized it in their pastures for over 20 years AND those who are installing it again at another home!

Traditional horse fencing can be expensive, difficult to maintain, and even dangerous. If you are looking for a safe, affordable fencing option for your horse(s), consider Cameo fencing. You understand the need to protect your horse and weigh the pros and cons of each fencing option prior to purchase. If you have any questionsabout the best fencing to suit your needs, call 1.800.822.5426 to speak with one of our knowledgeable associates.