Feed for Thought — equine

When summer hits its peak and the temperatures soar, horse owners must take extra steps to protect their equine partners from the risks of heat stress. Horses are incredibly resilient animals, but excessive heat, humidity, and sun exposure can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and even dangerous conditions like heatstroke. Whether you're caring for backyard horses, working animals, or competitive athletes, here are essential tips to keep your horses healthy and comfortable during the hottest days of the season. 1. Prioritize Hydration One of the most important aspects of summer horse care is ensuring access to clean, cool water at all...

Summer heat brings more than sun and sweat—it also brings flies. These pests can cause serious discomfort for livestock, reduce productivity, and even spread disease. Whether you manage a herd or a small backyard flock, having an effective fly control strategy is essential. Why Fly Control Matters: Flies irritate animals, disrupt grazing, and can lead to infections or illness. They’re also known to transmit conditions like pinkeye in cattle and can stress poultry and horses, impacting overall health and performance. Top Fly Control Solutions: Fly Sprays and Wipes: Ideal for horses and cattle, these provide quick relief. Look for options...

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...