People have always been fascinated by exotic wildlife and species not indigenous to their own country. Florida bans individuals from keeping certain types of exotic animals as pets. Too many have escaped or been let loose in the wild where they’ve become a nuisance or even a danger to people, pets and native wildlife.

However, the state does allow keeping some types of exotic animals and it’s the responsibility of the individual to provide appropriate safeguards to keep them contained, in good health, and that means a superior fencing solution.

Zoos, veterinarians, rescue organizations and conservancies that regularly work with wildlife require specialized facilities. When interacting with wild animals, containment consists of much more than an ordinary fence. Animal enclosures must meet highly specialized requirements that protects the animal and keeps people safe.

Zepco Fence is the undisputed leader in wild animal enclosures. The company designed and installed security fences for big cat sanctuaries in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Their innovative designs have been adopted by the state’s wildlife management division. Each containment option is customized to the animal.

The type of fence that’s best for a particular species depends on if the animal is a jumper, climber, digger, or flyer. In addition to the fence itself, the company can incorporate netting over the top of enclosures for those that fly or the inclusion of underground wires and concrete barriers under the perimeter of the fence to stymie diggers. Fencing is also available that has angling at the top to prevent climbers from escaping.

Even the smallest of exotic animals need sufficient space to exercise and it aids in maintaining their mental and emotional health. Containment solutions are available for highly social species, along with those that are shy by nature. Fencing solutions are designed for optimal safety for people and wildlife, minimize stress, prevent escape, and accommodate the natural behavior of the species.

There’s never a one-size-fits-all solution for fencing when it comes to animals. Some will try to climb a fence, others will try to dig under it, and some will try to jump over a fence. There are some animals that require a fence they can’t see through. Be aware that a fence should also keep out a variety of wildlife.

Dogs

The most common type of fencing for dogs is chain link. It can be equipped with underground guards that prevent canines from digging under it to escape. Chain link is available in multiple heights to prevent dogs from jumping over it.

For dogs that are easily excitable, a wood fence or one of PVC prevents them from seeing outside and can be built to multiple heights. The fencing should be at least 3 times the height of the dog for those that jump or even climb.

Horses

Wood fences are attractive for properties with horses, but they must be high enough to prevent equines from jumping over them, typically 6 ft. in height. The bottom rail must be low enough to deter a horse from crawling under them. Rails should be close enough together to prevent horses from getting their head, feet or legs between them.

A frightened horse may not see a metal fence. PVC fencing is a good option that can be easily seen by equines. It’s durable and can be constructed to meet a wide range of requirements. Wire fencing is often selected due to its low cost, but is difficult for horses to see without some type of highly visible top rail or markers along the fence line.

The squares in woven wire fencing should be small to prevent horses from getting heads, hooves and legs trapped. Mesh fencing is another option that provides springiness should a horse run into it.

Chickens

Chain link is a good choice for backyard chickens, but must have small enough spacing in the mesh to prevent small animals from squeezing through to gain access. Extensions at the top with a 90-degree outward angle prevents wildlife from crawling up and over. Rollers can also be placed at the top to accomplish the same goal.