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Electronet Fencing for Goats: A Comprehensive Guide to Safe and Effective Containment

Raising goats can be a rewarding experience, providing milk, meat, and even fiber. However, keeping these curious and agile animals safely contained can be a challenge. Traditional fencing often proves inadequate, leading to escapes and potential problems with neighbors or predators. This is where electronet fencing for goats comes in as a highly effective and versatile solution. This article provides a comprehensive guide to using electronet fencing for goats, covering everything from selecting the right equipment to installation and maintenance.

Understanding Electronet Fencing

Electronet fencing, also known as electric netting, is a type of portable electric fence specifically designed for livestock containment. It consists of a series of horizontal and vertical strands of conductive material woven into a mesh. When an animal, like a goat, touches the fence, it receives a brief, but unpleasant, electric shock. This teaches the animal to avoid the fence, creating a psychological barrier that is far more effective than a physical one.

Benefits of Using Electronet Fencing for Goats

Effective Containment: Electronet fencing provides a strong deterrent, preventing goats from escaping.
Portability: Easy to move and reconfigure, making it ideal for rotational grazing or temporary enclosures.
Predator Deterrent: The electric shock can also deter predators, offering added protection for your goats.
Cost-Effective: Compared to permanent fencing, electronet fencing can be a more affordable option, especially for large areas.
Easy Installation: Relatively simple to set up and take down, requiring minimal tools and expertise.

Choosing the Right Electronet Fencing for Goats

Selecting the appropriate electronet fencing is crucial for its effectiveness and the safety of your goats. Consider the following factors:

Fence Height

Goats are notorious jumpers, so choose a fence height that is tall enough to deter them. A minimum height of 42 inches is generally recommended, but taller fences may be necessary for particularly athletic breeds or individuals. Some breeders even opt for 48-inch fences to ensure maximum security. Consider the average height of your goats and their jumping ability when making your decision.

Mesh Size

The mesh size should be small enough to prevent goats from sticking their heads through the fence. This is especially important for younger goats or those with horns. Smaller mesh sizes also prevent predators like foxes and coyotes from easily accessing the enclosure. Typically, a mesh size of 4×4 inches or smaller is recommended for goat fencing. The tighter the mesh, the less likely goats are to test the boundaries.

Conductor Material

The conductivity of the fence material is crucial for delivering an effective shock. Look for electronet fencing with multiple strands of stainless steel or copper woven into the mesh. These materials provide excellent conductivity and are resistant to corrosion. The more conductive strands, the stronger the shock and the more effective the fence will be.

Fence Charger (Energizer)

The fence charger, also known as an energizer, is the heart of the electronet fencing system. It delivers the electrical pulse to the fence. Choose a charger that is appropriately sized for the length of the fence and the number of animals being contained. Consider the following factors when selecting a charger:

Output Voltage: A higher voltage is generally more effective, especially for goats with thick coats. Look for a charger with an output voltage of at least 5,000 volts.
Joule Rating: The joule rating indicates the energy delivered by the charger. A higher joule rating is needed for longer fences or those with heavy vegetation.
Power Source: Fence chargers can be powered by AC (mains), DC (battery), or solar energy. Choose a power source that is convenient and reliable for your location. Solar chargers are a great option for remote locations without access to electricity.

Fence Posts

Sturdy fence posts are essential for supporting the electronet fencing and keeping it taut. Use fiberglass or plastic posts specifically designed for electric fencing. These posts are lightweight, durable, and non-conductive. The spacing between posts will depend on the terrain and the type of fence, but generally, posts should be placed every 10-15 feet. For corners and areas with uneven ground, use heavier-duty posts for added support.

Installing Electronet Fencing for Goats

Proper installation is crucial for the effectiveness of electronet fencing. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and reliable enclosure:

Clear the Area: Remove any vegetation that could come into contact with the fence. This will prevent the vegetation from grounding the fence and reducing its effectiveness.
Install Corner Posts: Place sturdy corner posts at each corner of the enclosure. These posts should be well-anchored to withstand the tension of the fence.
Unroll the Electronet Fencing: Carefully unroll the electronet fencing, avoiding any kinks or tangles.
Attach the Fence to the Posts: Use clips or insulators to attach the fence to the posts. Make sure the fence is taut and evenly spaced between the posts.
Connect the Fence Charger: Connect the fence charger to the fence and a grounding rod. The grounding rod should be driven deep into the ground to provide a good electrical connection.
Test the Fence: Use a fence tester to check the voltage of the fence. A reading of at least 4,000 volts is recommended for effective goat containment.

Maintaining Electronet Fencing for Goats

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your electronet fencing in good working order and ensuring the safety of your goats. Here are some maintenance tips:

Check the Fence Regularly: Inspect the fence for any damage, such as broken strands or loose connections. Repair any damage immediately.
Keep Vegetation Clear: Regularly clear any vegetation that is touching the fence. This will prevent the vegetation from grounding the fence and reducing its effectiveness.
Test the Voltage: Use a fence tester to check the voltage of the fence regularly. This will help you identify any problems with the fence charger or the electrical connection.
Maintain the Fence Charger: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining the fence charger. This may include cleaning the terminals and checking the battery.
Winter Considerations: Snow can ground the fence. Consider raising the fence slightly or using a more powerful charger during the winter months.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper installation and maintenance, you may encounter some common issues with electronet fencing. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Low Voltage: Check the fence charger, grounding rod, and connections. Make sure there is no vegetation touching the fence.
Goats Escaping: Increase the voltage of the fence. Make sure the fence is tall enough and the mesh size is small enough to prevent goats from escaping. Also, ensure the goats are properly introduced to the fence.
Fence Not Working: Check the fence charger, grounding rod, and connections. Look for any broken strands or loose connections in the fence.

Training Goats to Respect Electronet Fencing

Introducing goats to electronet fencing properly is crucial for its long-term effectiveness. Goats need to learn to respect the fence and understand that it delivers an unpleasant shock. Here’s how to train them:

Supervise Initial Exposure: When first introducing goats to the fence, supervise them closely. Allow them to approach the fence and experience the shock.
Use Bait: Place some bait, such as hay or grain, near the fence. This will encourage the goats to approach the fence and receive the shock.
Reinforce with Visual Cues: Use brightly colored tape or flags to make the fence more visible to the goats. This will help them associate the fence with the shock.
Avoid Overcrowding: Provide enough space within the enclosure so that goats are not forced to crowd against the fence.
Monitor Behavior: Observe the goats’ behavior after they have been exposed to the fence. If they are still testing the boundaries, increase the voltage of the fence or reinforce the training.

Safety Considerations

While electronet fencing is generally safe for goats, it’s important to follow some safety precautions:

Keep Children Away: Keep children away from the fence to prevent accidental shocks.
Post Warning Signs: Post warning signs to alert people to the presence of an electric fence.
Use a Properly Grounded Charger: Ensure that the fence charger is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.
Avoid Contact with Water: Do not touch the fence while standing in water or on wet ground.
Consult a Veterinarian: If you have any concerns about the health or safety of your goats, consult a veterinarian.

Conclusion

Electronet fencing for goats offers a practical, portable, and effective solution for containing these intelligent and agile animals. By understanding the different types of electronet fencing, proper installation techniques, and consistent maintenance practices, goat owners can ensure the safety and security of their herds. Remember to prioritize safety and train your goats to respect the fence for long-term success. With careful planning and implementation, electronet fencing can be a valuable tool for managing your goats and enjoying the many benefits they provide. Investing in a quality electronet fencing system will ultimately save you time, money, and the frustration of chasing escaped goats. Remember to always supervise and monitor your goats initially after installing the electronet fencing to ensure they understand the boundaries. Consider the specific needs of your goats and your property when selecting and installing your electronet fencing system. [See also: Goat Breeds for Beginners] [See also: Building a Goat Shelter] [See also: Common Goat Diseases and Prevention]