Welcome to our guide on creating safe and secure fencing for foals and young horses. Foals are curious and energetic, and it’s essential to provide them with a protected environment to prevent accidents and injuries.
In this article, we will explore the unique fencing requirements for foals and discuss how to create foal-safe paddocks and nursery areas that prioritize their safety and well-being.
Creating a Nursery Paddock for Foals
When preparing a nursery paddock for foals, it is crucial to prioritize their safety and well-being by creating a strong, roomy, and secure enclosure.
One of the key considerations is separating the mare and foal from other horses, allowing them ample time to adjust to their new surroundings and form a strong bond.
Additionally, having experienced and non-threatening horses in nearby paddocks can provide a sense of security for the mare and foal.
Fencing plays a vital role in safety, preventing foals from slipping through or getting caught in it. There are several options to consider, such as wire mesh, and flex-fence. These types of fencing can effectively keep foals contained and reduce the risk of them getting into potentially dangerous situations.
A popular choice for foal paddocks is square mesh or other wire mesh systems with tight spacing. This not only prevents foals from escaping but also helps keep predators at bay, ensuring the utmost safety for the vulnerable foals.
Mesh fencing should be no larger than 2” x 4” and at least 54” high. If you are using 48” mesh fencing, then install a top rail on the wire.
By creating a nursery paddock with appropriate fencing, owners can provide a secure environment for foals, allowing them to grow and thrive without the risk of slipping through or getting caught in fencing.
Typical paddock size should be at least 100’ x 100’ to give enough room to move, jump and kick but not enough room to gain too much speed.
Choosing the Right Fence for Foals
Foals are curious and can easily slip through or under certain types of fences. To ensure their safety, it is crucial to choose the right fencing options that provide secure containment. Here are some considerations when selecting a fence for foals:
1. Rail Fence with Proper Spacing
A rail fence is a popular choice for foal enclosures. However, it is important to have smaller spacing between rails to prevent foals from slipping through. This helps keep them safely contained within the paddock. Typical spacing would be no more than 9” between the rails, and a 54” fence height.
2. Modifying Existing Fences
If you already have existing fences that are not suitable for foals, don’t worry. With a few tweaks, they can be modified to create a safer environment.
Consider adding coated wire or flexible rail to your fences to reduce the spacing between rails. This modification will prevent foals from squeezing through or getting caught in the gaps. Use electric fencing to help the foals gain respect for fencing early on.
3. Flexible Rail Fence Systems
Another option is to install a flexible rail fence system specifically designed for foals. These fences offer gradually increasing spacing between rails to accommodate the foal’s growth while ensuring security.
Using Flex Rail, you can use a combination of wider, very visible rail and coated wire.
The flexibility of these rail systems reduces the risk of injury, providing a safe environment for both the mare and foal.
It is important to ensure that all cut ends and spliced areas of the fence are crimped and free of sharp edges. This precautionary measure minimizes the potential for any injuries to the foal or mare.
Foal-Proofing the Foaling Stall and Barn
Foaling stalls and barns play a crucial role in providing a safe and secure environment for newborn foals. Foal-proofing these areas is essential to prevent potential accidents and injuries.
By following a few key safety measures, you can help ensure the well-being of the foals.
Ensure Walls Are Smooth
One important aspect of foal-proofing the foaling stall and barn is to ensure that the walls are smooth. Rough or uneven walls can pose a risk of the foal getting its hooves or legs caught.
Regularly inspect the walls and make any necessary repairs or modifications to eliminate any potential hazards.
Removing Potential Hazards
A thorough inspection of the foaling stall and barn is necessary to identify and remove any potential hazards.
Check for loose boards, splinters, and gaps between boards or doors that could potentially injure the foal.
Appropriate Feeders and Waterers
The foal’s access to feeders and waterers should be convenient and safe. Ensure that the feeders and waterers have smooth edges to prevent any injuries when the foal is feeding or drinking.
Allow free access to water at the start, and when they become able, you can introduce them to waterers that have a value to release water providing them with fresh clean water, similar to the Drinking Post.
Additionally, make sure that the height of the feeders and waterers is appropriate for the foal’s easy accessibility.
Properly foal-proofing the stall and barn significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, providing a secure environment for the foal to thrive.
Safe Turnout Practices for Foals and Broodmares
When it comes to turnout for foals and broodmares, there are important safety considerations that should be followed.
Separate Accommodations for Mare and Foal
It is crucial to provide separate from other horses accommodations for the mare and foal until the foal is about two weeks old. This allows the mare and foal to bond and adjust to their new surroundings without the potential stress or negative interactions with other horses.
During this time, it is recommended to closely monitor their interactions and ensure a secure and controlled environment.
Gradual Introduction to Other Horses
When introducing the mare and foal to other horses, it is advised to start with one pair at a time.
This gradual introduction helps to prevent aggressive behaviour and allows the mare and foal to become familiar with their new herd members in a controlled manner.
Close monitoring during the initial interactions is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all horses involved.
By following these safe turnout practices, you can help create a secure and harmonious environment for foals and broodmares.
Fencing for Foals and Young Horses in Rockwood at System Equine
Fencing is of utmost importance when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of foals and young horses.
By implementing best practices, such as creating dedicated nursery paddocks, selecting appropriate fencing options, and foal-proofing stall and barn areas, owners can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
If you’re prepping your barn or paddocks for the upcoming foaling season, the experts at System Equine are here to help.
With various fencing solutions and high-quality barn and paddock supplies, designing a safe space for your new foals to thrive becomes effortless.
Contact us today to learn more.
