Fences, Partitions, and Gates

We've tried many types of fences over the years.  This is the one that reliably keeps the goats in.  It's 4-foot page wire with a rail on top for height and one lower down that stops the goats from standing on the wire and dragging it down.  Even this fence won't hold in a buck if there are does in heat on the other side!

A gate hinge.  This one is inexpensive, easily installed, and durable.  It's a piece of metal strapping, nailed to the gatepost in a loop.  The gate is held in place within the loop and turns freely.

To make partitions in the barn, we slide boards into the slots on the wall.  Spacers are put between the boards.  We can make the partition into a solid wall by leaving the spacers out.  If the bottom boards are spaced apart more widely, kids can get through but adults can't.  Taking the partition out completely opens up the area.

This is the easiest goat-proof latch we've found.  A loop of very heavy chain can be lifted easily by us, but not by any of the animals.

A rail gate.  This works the same way as the partitions in the barn.  With lots of rails up, it confines the goats.  When we slide the lower rails out of the way, it lets the goats through but keeps the horse in.