Security is an important issue for any horse owner and the vast majority of people have to invest in some kind of fencing to ensure that their equine stays where it should! Fencing is expensive and though at Redwings we are lucky enough to be able to invest in post and stud rail round our paddocks, we appreciate that this not a realistic option for many people.

We suggest that owners use equine electric tape (not wire or sheep fencing) as a safer alternative to barbed wire. Equine electric tape can also be used to create a buffer fence to screen off barbed wire on rented land.

However, we strongly believe that barbed wire should never be used as a cheap fencing solution. As an active welfare organisation, we have first hand experience of the devastating results of barbed wire injury.

Ally

Ally arrived at Redwings with horrific open wounds on her leg. She had tried to jump out of her field when something frightened her and she caught herself on barbed wire. The wire removed large sections of flesh from both her front legs and her owner had spent all her money on vet’s bills, even selling her car to pay for treatment.

Luckily, at Redwings our vets were able to provide everything that Ally needed to recover. She has been left with serious scars though, which are prone to reopening when she stretches or plays. Each time she requires more intensive veterinary treatment.

Ally was lucky to survive her injuries. The extent of her injuries could have caused incurable damage to ligaments or nerves or led to fatal infection. We hope that her story will make horse owners think twice about using barbed wire round their paddocks.

• Welfare leaflets