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Feeding livestock through winter takes more than just having enough — it’s about keeping your feed fresh, safe, and nutritious. Poor storage or moisture exposure can quickly spoil feed, leading to waste and potential health problems. Here’s how to protect your investment and ensure your animals get the most out of every bite. 1. Store Hay the Right Way Keep hay dry and elevated off the ground on pallets or mats to prevent moisture damage. Cover stacks with tarps or store in a well-ventilated shed to reduce mold and nutrient loss. Regularly inspect bales for musty smells or discoloration. 2....

When the temperature drops, your animals feel the effects just as much as you do. Winter can be a challenging season for farmers and livestock owners — not just because of the cold, but because of the extra care animals need to stay healthy and productive. With a few smart management steps, you can help prevent stress, illness, and weight loss throughout the season. 1. Recognize Signs of Cold-Weather Stress Animals under cold stress often eat more but still lose weight, shiver, or become lethargic. Horses may stand hunched with their tails tucked, while cattle or goats might huddle closely...

If you had pulled me aside when I was younger and asked if I knew the difference between store bought and fresh farm eggs, my response would most likely be, ‘eggs are eggs.’ Basically, I didn’t think there was a difference and all eggs were just delicious.  However, there is a difference between the two. I first learned this difference when I went to college in Central New York. Central New York is where I developed a passion for farmer’s markets, the concept of farm to table, and the importance of supporting your local community. So what is the real...

Cats and dogs are naturally meat-eaters, and grain-free treats are all the rage to offer your pets. But how appropriate are grains, really, in your pet's diet? What types of treats are suitable and how can you find the best options to meet your pet's nutritional needs? Grain and Your Pets Naturally carnivorous pets such as cats and dogs require diets high in protein and made of mostly meat for strong, healthy muscles and overall nutritional balance. While it is true that carnivores cannot easily digest grains, modern domesticated dogs and cats can usually eat small amounts of grain without...

Understanding the basic dietary needs of your equine friend is an essential part of ownership. Horses are foragers, meaning they graze. Meeting this natural characteristic is imperative.• Hay: Hay is commonly the preferred source of forage. A safe calculation is 1 pound of hay to every 100 pounds of a horse’s body weight. Allowing a horse to have access to hay all day helps promote a healthy digestive process.• Best Practice for Feeding: The amount of feed given on a daily basis should be determined by the horse’s size and work load. A normal leisure walking horse might have a...