Electric Fencing

Electric Fencing

When it comes to protecting animals on the farm or keeping your pets in the yard, the right enclosure is crucial. That’s where an electric fence comes in, providing a low-voltage barrier that pulses when contacted, safely deterring animals from crossing it. Tractor Supply is home to a complete selection, plus the other fence building supplies you’ll need to get started on your project.

Safe, Effective Animal Containment

Electric fencing can keep predators and other intruders out of pens, as well as prevent pets and livestock getting onto parts of your property where they don't belong. Whatever reason you need an electric fence, you’ll find plenty of options in our inventory.

Ideal for Temporary or Rotating Setups

If you’re looking for alternative fencing to traditional or permanent options, consider an electric one. Usually, electric fencing a temporary solution, comprised of fewer materials and easier to build than residential or other fencing. That makes it ideal for when you want short-term animal control. Use it to create paddocks for rotational grazing, keep pests, such as deer or rabbits, from getting into your gardens or orchards, separate different groups of animals in the same pasture and more.

Voltage and Energizers for Your Needs

In terms of voltage, the larger and more aggressive the animal you're defending against or protecting, the higher the output that may be required. An enclosure containing beef and dairy cattle, for example, may require a higher voltage rating than a pig pen or a pet kennel. To choose the right energizer, consider how much fencing you're installing and what kind of soil you’re building it in. You’ll need the right output joule rating for the size of the acreage you plan to cover. The drier the soil, the higher the output should be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Fencing

How does electric fencing work?

Usually, a DC battery-, AC mains- or solar-powered charger or energizer generates electricity along posts on a fence line via conductor wires or netting. The current is kept on a directed return path by insulators and a grounding system, such as earth stakes. When a person or animal touches the fence, they complete an electrical circuit, which results in a shock.

What tools do I need to build an electric fence?

• A hand auger to dig holes for fence posts
• A ratchet to hold and properly tension wiring or netting
• Electrical tape for wrapping connections or securing the ends of wires
• A voltage tester to get readings on the strength of the current running through the fence
• A power drill and screws for installing or replacing insulators on fence posts
• A claw hammer for any nailing into posts that you have to do
• Pliers, especially locking pliers, for tightening and loosening bolts and undoing knots
• Wire cutters and a utility knife for snipping wire and nets to size and cleaning its edges up
• A high-capacity, long-distance tape measure for figuring out how much wiring or netting to cut and where to put posts
• A level to make sure posts and fencing are straight

Protect Your Animals with Electric Fencing from Tractor Supply

Preparing to install your electric fence doesn’t have to be a hassle. Stop by your local Tractor Supply store for help picking up the tools, equipment and materials you’ll need, or shop and order online now.