Fencing plays a critical role in both protecting animals and managing property boundaries. Whether you’re a hobby farmer, a professional breeder, or a homeowner with pets, opting for the right fence can mean the difference between peace of mind and constant worry. With so many materials and styles out there, how do you know which fence is best for your animals?
The answer depends on the type of animals you’re keeping out or keeping in, as well as the unique challenges of your environment. From garden invaders like deer and rabbits to burrowing animals or jumping livestock, the right fence isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key features to look for in animal fencing. Also, why investing in purpose-built products like those at Critterfence can make all the difference.
Why Choosing the Right Fence Matters
Fencing is often viewed as a physical barrier, but it serves a broader purpose in animal care and property maintenance. It protects your animals from predators, prevents escapes, and helps establish safe zones for grazing or play. At the same time, fencing also helps deter pests or wildlife that might damage crops or landscaping.
Moreover, choosing the wrong type of fence or installing one not suited to your needs can lead to constant repairs, lost livestock, or even injury to animals. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the behaviors of the animals involved and match those needs to a fence designed specifically for them.
Understanding the Different Fence Requirements
Each type of animal has different needs when it comes to containment and protection. For example:
- Deer are agile jumpers and require taller fences (often 7 feet or more) that are difficult to clear.
- Rabbits, groundhogs, and other burrowers need fencing that extends underground to prevent tunneling.
- Coyotes, foxes, and other predators may need electrified barriers or tight mesh patterns to be kept out effectively.
- Livestock like goats and sheep are known for testing fences with their horns or weight, so durability and proper spacing are key.
It’s not just about keeping animals in. In many cases, you’re also trying to keep harmful ones out, and that’s where specialty fencing comes in.
Features to Look for in Animal Fencing
When evaluating fencing options, look for the following features:
- Height & Strength: Make sure the fence is tall and strong enough to prevent jumping, pushing, or climbing. For instance, deer fencing should be at least 7 to 8 feet tall and flexible enough to withstand impact without breaking.
- Mesh Size: Small mesh openings help keep smaller animals out while still maintaining visibility. Tight mesh is particularly helpful for rabbits, squirrels, and other agile pests.
- Rust-Resistance: Choose materials that can handle the elements over time. Galvanized steel with a black PVC coating is often preferred for both durability and appearance.
- Dig Protection: For burrowing animals, consider fencing that includes an underground barrier. Some systems allow for easy trenching and secure anchoring.
- Non-Electrified Options: While electric fencing has its place, many animal-friendly or residential areas prefer non-electrified fencing that still offers strong security without the risk of harm.
Why a Purpose-Built System Matters
Many people try to piece together fencing from general-purpose materials, but this often leads to frustration and higher long-term costs. A fence designed specifically for animal control takes into account behaviors, weather exposure, and installation convenience.
That’s where Critterfence stands out. Rather than selling generic fencing, they specialize in high-quality animal-specific fencing systems. Such are easy to install and built to last. Their kits consider everything, from fence height and tensioning to ground anchoring and mesh size, so you can spend less time researching and more time protecting what matters.
Whether you’re looking for a ready-to-use solution or something that adapts to your property’s needs. Take a moment to shop Critterfence and explore their options.
Tips for Successful Installation
Getting the right fence is only part of the equation; installing it correctly is just as important. Hence, here are some tips to help your fence perform at its best:
- Start with a Plan: Walk the perimeter of your property and note areas where animals tend to gather, dig, or jump.
- Use Tension Wire: Adding top and bottom tension wires improves stability, especially for flexible mesh fences.
- Install Ground Stakes: Secure the bottom of the fence to prevent lifting by curious animals or digging intruders.
- Avoid Gaps: Make sure there are no open spaces near gates, corners, or uneven terrain where animals can slip through.
- Regular Maintenance: Even the best fence needs occasional checks. Henceforth, look for signs of wear, pressure points, or damage after storms.
Long-Term Value
While it may be tempting to opt for an affordable fence solution upfront, cutting corners often leads to higher costs later. Frequent repairs, animal escapes, or needing to redo the job entirely can take up more time and money than investing in a quality system from the beginning.
When you shop Critterfence, you’re not just buying materials, you’re getting access to decades of research, product testing, and field-proven designs tailored to animal protection. Additionally, it’s a long-term solution that pays off with fewer headaches and stronger peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Protecting animals, whether yours or wild ones from your garden, is a responsibility that starts with the right barrier. The best animal fence isn’t always the most expensive. It is the one designed with a clear purpose in mind. Take the time to research your needs, understand specifically designed to meet behaviors, and trust solutions that are built to match those needs.
If you’re ready to invest in a durable, low-maintenance solution, shop Critterfence and get started with a system designed to work with nature, not against it.
