In many areas of Bulgaria, herds of livestock are left to roam the mountain pastures freely for months. This creates a high risk of disease or loss, including as a result of predator attacks, notably against young lambs, calves or foals grazing in the vicinity of wooded areas or scrublands. The damages inflicted by bears can be minimized by using shepherds and specially trained dogs to guard the herds, or by installing electrified fences. An electric fence is a much simpler and faster option. It can be installed in a remote area and powered by regular batteries, or hooked to solar panels, in the absence of power mains.