How to Keep a Horse From Pushing Over a Post

Some horses are very aware of their own strength and have learned to push down posts, fences, gates and even stable doors. Their reward for this behavior is temporary freedom or, often, access to pastures with newer, greener grass. Occasionally fear can lead to horses' pushing down posts, but whatever the reason, pushing over posts is a dangerous habit. If your horse gets loose through broken fencing, it can cause accidents not only to itself, but to others in the vicinity. It is essential that you cure your horse of this habit as soon as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Strong fenceposts
  • Electric fence tape
  • Electric fence insulators
  • Electric fence tensioners
  • Electric fence unit
  • Power source
  • Tractor with post knocker
  • Concrete
  • Shovel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide which method you will use to set your posts in the ground when initially building horse fences. You can choose to hammer the posts directly into the ground with a post knocker, which is relatively quick but which necessitates the need for a trained operator and specialized equipment (tractor with post knocker fitted). The second method is to dig a hole for each post and fill it with concrete, leaving it to dry for about three days before nailing on the rails. This is more costly and labor-intensive but does give a strong bond in the ground. Whichever method you choose, drive the posts deep (at least 2 feet) into the ground for added strength.

    • 2

      Screw electric fence insulators into each post and thread electric tape through them. Tension the tape at each end to ensure that it is as taut as possible. This not only provides a better current, but also prevents the tape from flapping in the wind. Check that the tape is not twisted, and that it does not touch the floor or any hedging, as this will ground it, preventing a current from running with equal intensity through the fence.

    • 3

      Attach the electric source to the tape, ensuring that it is properly grounded. To ground a electric fence unit that is powered by a portable battery, drive a metal stake deep into the ground and attach the green lead from the unit to the metal stake. Attach the red lead directly to the tape, then turn the unit on. Check to be sure that the light is flashing and that a regular beep is being emitted.

    • 4

      Feed your horse well. If he is in a pasture with good access to all his basic needs, including a food source, fresh water and adequate shelter, he will generally not attempt to push down fences and posts. If he has a habit of pushing down posts, make sure he is not next to a lush green pasture that may be tempting him to break free.

    • 5

      Bring your horse into his stable if his companions are moved from the field; horses are herd animals and do not like being separated from their friends. Such separation leads to panic and stress, creating conditions in which a horse is more likely than usual to push down posts.