On 12/11/12 9:23 AM, Abby wrote:
Hi and Happy Holidays,

What would take to build a fence that cows could not break through or
jump over? We have a recurring problem with a neighbor's cows breaking
through our fence. We are looking for an alternative to an electrified
fence (I posted a separate query about electrified fences the other
day.) The problem area is at most 25..30 feet but we might get by with
a 10 foot section. The fence is at the top of slope which makes it more
difficult for them to jump over it. We have seen them break through and
there were more than on animal pushing. We are in Costa Rica where
during the upcoming dry season the pool and irrigated plants will be
irresistible.

Thanks,
Gary

Barbed wire supposedly tamed the American West. Ten foot treated
4x4s set 4 foot in. Five strands of barbed wire on the critter side.
Others suggested something solid so the cattle can't see your stuff.
Maybe add that to your side? It's on that very long list of things
I've never heard of doing.
Have you ever seen cattle guards? My dad's neighbor had a couple.
He also had an old cow that could get through or over a fence.
She never went through a cattle guard as far as anyone knew.
His guards were several pipe perpendicular to the road. There was a
little trench under the guard. I want to say it was only a foot or two
deep.
A bit here from Wikipedia: http://tinyurl.com/bdg7z9j