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As we set resolutions for ourselves, it’s also the perfect time to think about our pets’ health and happiness. From better diets to more playtime, a few simple habits can make a big difference in your furry friend’s well-being this year. 1. Refresh Their Routine Pets thrive on structure, but sometimes routines need a reset. Establish consistent mealtimes. This helps with digestion and weight control. Add regular play sessions. A quick game of fetch or a few minutes with a wand toy can improve both mood and health. Stick to a bedtime. Just like us, pets benefit from a good...

Winter’s extreme cold can certainly reduce egg production. But darkness is the main reason production begins to slow in late fall. Research shows that chickens lay best when they receive about 15 hours of light daily. In the northern United States, natural daylight drops to under nine hours at the end of December. To optimize egg production, supplemental (or artificial) lighting in the coop is a must for the next three to four months until the days get longer. Setting up a simple light, controlled by a timer, solves the problem of waning sunlight. The same silver reflector lamps used...

It’s that time of year when everyone seems to be resolving to do things differently. Whatever that means to you, we are putting a horsey spin on resolutions as they relate to what we do with our equine partners and our activities around the barn. Here are some resolutions to consider if you’re trying to change things up for the New Year: Commit to a barn safety evaluation. Look around and identify things that need repair such as loose boards, nails protruding, broken crossties, or loose electrical outlets. This is also a great time to revisit or create your fire evacuation...

The holidays are a magical time filled with twinkling lights, festive décor, and cozy gatherings. But for pet owners, all that sparkle can come with a few hidden dangers. From tempting tinsel to curious paws near candles, keeping your home merry and pet-safe takes a little extra planning. Here’s how to decorate safely without losing your holiday spirit. 1. Choose Pet-Safe Tree Decorations Christmas trees are often the centerpiece of the season—but they’re also irresistible to pets. Cats love to climb them, and dogs might see ornaments as toys. Skip tinsel and ribbon. These shiny strands are choking hazards and...

Like all living things, chickens need water to thrive. But keeping your hens hydrated in winter can be a challenge when temperatures plummet. Consider these tips to keep the fluids flowing, even in the coldest climates. Above all, make sure your girls always have access to water that is fresh, clean and unfrozen. Why Water Matters Granted, chickens don’t drink as much water in winter. But abundant liquid water is essential for a variety of reasons. First is egg production. Lack of water…even for just a matter of hours…can throw off egg laying, which may already be comprised due to...