How to Avoid High NSC Intake for Horses in the Spring
Research has shown that pasture-induced laminitis occurs at times of rapid grass growth, which happens to be in the spring particularly. Therefore, we must carefully manage pasture turnout and forage intake in horses and ponies that are at risk for developing laminitis or who are currently affected. We also understand that horses suffering from insulin resistance (IR) and/or Cushing’s (pituitary...
How Can I Get My Stubborn Cushing’s Horse to Take Medication?
Cushing’s Disease & Ensuring Medication Intake What is it? Cushing's disease, also known as PPID (pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction), is a progressive disorder that begins with the dysfunction of the pituitary gland. This gland, at the base of the brain, sends out a number of hormones, and a horse with Cushing’s disease starts to send out more hormones causing a number of symptoms. What...
Hamsters, Gerbils, and Guinea Pigs – What’s the Difference?
Of U.S. households that own pets, 4% own a hamster, gerbils, or guinea Pigs, making them the 3rd most common pet to own outside of dogs and cats. Small companion animals make for great pets; however, if you’re not a small animal expert, you might find it hard to tell these cute animals apart. Below you will find a few fun facts about the difference between hamsters, gerbils, and guinea...
What Do Goats Eat?
Some of the most common questions I get about goats is, “What do I feed them?” Many people expect to hear a quick, one-sentence answer. The questions can also come in a variety of renditions. Should I feed alfalfa or grass? Should I feed baled hay or hay cubes or hay pellets? Plain grain or goat feed? How much should I feed? But as with so many things goat related, the answer is, “it depends.” A...
4 Tips for Raising Chickens in the Winter
Winter’s damp, cold weather and freezing temperatures can pose potential challenges to keeping your backyard chickens happy and healthy. Below are 4 tips on raising chickens in the winter, to support your flock’s health and well-being. 1. Prevent frostbite Chickens are most prone to frostbite on their wattles, feet, and combs. To help prevent frostbite, protect the chickens’ feet by removing all...
