Ever watched your goats test the boundaries of their pen and wondered if there’s a better way to keep them safe and secure? Choosing the right panels for your goats is an essential part of ensuring their well-being—and your peace of mind.
In this article, you’ll discover what makes a great panel for goats, key steps to selecting the right type, and practical tips for setup. Let’s help you build a pen that keeps your goats happy and protected!
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How Panels for Goats Work: A Comprehensive Guide
If you manage goats or are considering starting your own herd, providing them with strong, safe, and practical fencing is crucial. Goat panels—also called livestock, sheep, or feedlot panels—are a versatile solution to efficiently keep goats secure. Understanding how these panels work, what types are available, and how to select and install them can make goat keeping much easier and more rewarding.
Let’s unravel the process of choosing and using goat panels, exploring their benefits, practical application tips, and answers to common questions.
What Are Goat Panels?
Goat panels are heavy-duty fence sections crafted specifically to manage goats effectively and safely. Typically made from welded gauge wire or metal tubing, these panels are designed to create pens, pastures, and enclosures tailored to the needs of goats.
Key Features of Goat Panels:
- Durable Construction: Most panels use steel or galvanized wire, ensuring longevity even in harsh weather.
- Proper Spacing: Openings are usually small (often 4″ x 4″), preventing even young kids from squeezing through or getting stuck.
- Ample Height: Common heights are 48 inches or higher, discouraging goats from jumping over.
- Easy Installation: Panels are often modular, allowing flexible setup for any operation size.
Common Panel Sizes:
There’s a standard variety, but one of the most popular sizes is the 48-inch high by 16-foot-long panel, with 4-inch square openings. These dimensions strike a balance between security and ease of handling.
Why Use Panels for Goats?
Goats have a reputation for being clever escape artists. They are curious, agile, and can squeeze through small gaps or climb over short obstacles. Traditional fencing often fails to contain them, but goat panels offer several advantages:
Benefits:
- Security: Panels are sturdy and tough for goats to break or dislodge.
- Safety: Properly sized openings prevent injuries and entrapment.
- Adaptability: Use panels for perimeter fencing, interior pens, separating animals, or making temporary enclosures.
- Easy Setup and Mobility: Move panels as needed, whether for rotational grazing or kidding pens.
- Low Maintenance: Quality panels resist rust and damage, needing little attention.
Versatile Settings:
You can use goat panels in various setups, such as:
– Permanent perimeter fencing.
– Temporary pens for quarantine, birthing, or shows.
– Feeding and handling alleys.
Types of Goat Panels Available
When shopping for goat panels, you’ll find several options based on material, design, and intended use. Let’s explore the most common types:
1. Welded Wire Panels
- Construction: Welded steel wires form a rigid grid.
- Features: Square or rectangular openings (commonly 4″ x 4″ or 6″ x 6″).
- Best for: Standard fencing, feedlots, or pens.
2. Tubular Steel Panels
- Construction: Round steel tubing welded into horizontal and vertical bars.
- Benefits: Extra strength, often used for gates or crowding areas.
- Best for: Heavy-duty handling or larger livestock operations.
3. Aluminum Panels
- Construction: Lightweight, rust-proof aluminum.
- Advantages: Easier handling and installation.
- Best for: Portable pens, show pens, or where frequent relocation is needed.
4. Combination Panels (Sheep/Hog/Goat)
- Designed with spacing and heights suitable for multiple small livestock types.
- Offer flexibility if you manage goats alongside sheep or pigs.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Goat Panels
Not all panels are created equal. Here’s what to evaluate:
- Panel Height
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Goats love to jump. A panel should typically be at least 48″ high to prevent escape.
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Wire Gauge/Bar Strength
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Thicker gauge (lower number) means stronger, more escape-proof panels. For mesh panels, look for at least 4-gauge wire.
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Opening Size
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Openings should be no larger than 4″ x 4″. This prevents goat kids (and their horns or heads) from getting stuck and keeps predators out.
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Rust Protection
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Panels should be galvanized or powder-coated for maximum durability.
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Ease of Handling
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Consider the weight, especially for temporary setups or frequent moves. Aluminum might be best for these uses.
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Compatibility
- If you need to connect panels or attach them to existing structures, check that they have compatible connectors or brackets.
Step-By-Step: Setting Up Goat Panels
Setting up fencing for your goats doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a simple guide:
1. Plan Your Layout
- Sketch your paddock or pen design.
- Measure the perimeter to estimate the number of panels and posts needed.
2. Prepare the Site
- Clear the area of debris or obstacles that might affect panel placement.
- Mark corner and gate locations for easy reference.
3. Place Posts (If Needed)
- While some panels can stand alone (especially heavy-duty models), T-posts, wood posts, or panel connectors add stability.
4. Attach the Panels
- Stand panels upright, aligning with posts or each other.
- Use clamps, wire ties, or specialized hardware to secure panels to posts.
5. Install Gates
- For entry/exit, place a panel gate or swing gate.
- Ensure it latches securely and swings freely.
6. Inspect and Adjust
- Walk the fence line, checking for unstable panels or gaps.
- Make final adjustments for a secure and safe enclosure.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
- Check for Sharp Edges: Always inspect panels before installation. File down or pad any sharp edges.
- Regular Inspections: Goats can loosen fittings or damage panels over time. Monthly checks catch issues before escapes happen.
- Monitor for Digging: Goats rarely dig, but predators might. Secure panel bottoms with ground stakes if digging is a risk.
- Gate Placement: Place gates in high, dry areas to prevent mud buildup and hoof health issues.
- Easy Access: Make pens accessible for cleaning, feeding, and handling goats by allowing enough space for equipment entry.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Escaping Goats
If goats repeatedly escape:
– Check for gaps under or between panels.
– Add additional tie-downs or ground anchors.
– Increase panel height if jumpers are a problem.
Damaged or Rusted Panels
- Choose galvanized or powder-coated panels for rust prevention.
- Repair or replace any panel with broken welds or excessive rust.
Moving Panels
- For temporary pastures, opt for lightweight aluminum or modular panels.
- Store unused panels vertically in a dry, shaded area to prolong lifespan.
Costs, Shipping Tips, and Budget Advice
Goat panels are a significant investment but offer long-term value.
Panel Costs:
- Standard Welded Wire Panels: Typically range from $30 to $60 per panel.
- Aluminum Panels: Often cost more upfront due to material, but offer savings in ease of handling.
- Heavy-Duty Tubular Panels: Can be $80 and up, depending on strength and brand.
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy in Bulk: Many suppliers offer volume discounts for larger orders.
- Local Pickup: If possible, pick up panels yourself to save on shipping, which can be costly due to size and weight.
- Compare Brands: Look for sales or bundles from reputable farm supply stores.
- Check Used Markets: Sometimes, gently used panels can be found at a lower cost.
Shipping Considerations
- Panels are heavy and long, making them expensive to ship individually.
- Group your order or organize bulk delivery with neighbors to share shipping expenses.
- If ordering aluminum or lighter panels, shipping costs may be less.
- Double-check delivery access—ensure trucks can reach your property.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What size panels are best for goats?
Ideal goat panels are 16 feet long and at least 48 inches high, with 4-inch square openings. This prevents even young kids from escaping or getting stuck.
2. Can these panels be used for other animals?
Yes. Sheep, hogs, and even calves can be managed with well-designed goat panels, provided the wire spacing and height suit the other animals’ needs.
3. Do panels require permanent installation?
No. Many panels are designed for easy setup and removal, allowing you to create temporary pens, move rotations, or adjust your fencing as your needs change.
4. How do I prevent goats from climbing over the panels?
Use panels at least 48 inches tall, keep feeder or structures away from the fence line (as goats may use these as a boost), and regularly inspect panels for any bent spots which could aid escaping.
5. How long do good-quality goat panels last?
Galvanized steel panels can last 10–20 years or more with basic care. Regular inspections and prompt repairs maximize their lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment.
In Summary
Goat panels are an essential tool for effective, safe, and low-maintenance goat management. With the right panels, you ensure livestock security, reduce maintenance headaches, and enjoy flexible fencing solutions adaptable to your evolving needs. By understanding your specific requirements, preparing your layout, choosing quality materials, and following best installation practices, your goat-keeping experience will be safer and more enjoyable.