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Feeding your horse during the longer days and warmer temperatures of the spring season can often be different than your chosen winter-feeding program. Keep the following diet and feeding considerations in mind to help your horse smoothly transition from winter to spring:Tip 1: Monitor Your Horse’s Body ConditionWe all know every horse is different. This means that some horses will have gained winter weight from working less, while other horses will have shed a few pounds keeping warm in the cold. Before even thinking of altering your horse’s spring-feeding regimen, first evaluate his body condition. With the help of your...

Raising chickens isn’t complicated, but it can seem that way for novices who want to keep a small flock but lack mentors to learn from. Fortunately, the growing backyard chicken phenomenon is increasing acceptance of these docile animals in both cities and suburbia. So, how does a person with no chicken experience learn how to start and care for a backyard flock? It is really not difficult, and in many ways caring for chickens is similar to tending a family pet. Chickens, like dogs and cats, need safe housing and nutritious food. To help you understand the ins and outs...

Buying dog and cat food in bulk can be a good way to save money. However, how you store that large bag of food once it is opened can significantly affect its freshness and quality. Here are some things you can do to ensure your pet is getting the best nutrition. Check the date All bags and cans of pet food have an expiration or “use by” date on them. It is usually stated as a “best by” or “best before” date. Be certain the date is far enough in the future that you will use up the product before...

Protein is all the buzz in the human health world, with products proudly boasting “more protein” or “high in protein.” Did you know that protein is just as important for your backyard poultry flock? Let’s dive into why protein is a superstar nutrient, especially for your new chicks! Why Protein Matters for Chicks Newly hatched chicks are growing and developing rapidly each day, and protein is the key nutrient that fuels this rapid growth. Protein is vital to the development of strong muscles, bones, and organs. Here’s a fun fact you may not have known: protein also plays a crucial...

Ever wonder how your horse’s digestive system works? What goes on in there? Why are they so sensitive? And why should I divide the feed ration into 2 or 3 feedings per day? Let’s take a closer look to better understand. Mouth & Teeth: Teeth are the beginning of the entire process. Designed to grind foodstuffs into smaller pieces, the act of chewing also stimulates three glands in the mouth to produce saliva. These glands can produce up to 10 gallons per day of saliva. The saliva contains bicarbonate (a natural acid buffer) and amylase (assists with carbohydrate digestion). Teeth...