This lush spring grass makes me happy. It’s a delightful treat after eating hay all winter. I’ve discovered all this grass can hold some surprises, though. In addition to my next meal, this tall grass may be home to ticks. These small arachnids cling to grass and other bushy plants waiting for someone or something to walk by, so they can hitch a ride and their next meal. These creatures can pose health concerns for horses and humans, alike.
Spring brings sunny weather and green pastures, but you know what else it brings? Mosquitoes and biting flies, of course! These pesky little insects are more than just an annoyance. They can transmit plenty of nasty diseases to your horse. To protect your horse, you’ll want to make sure it’s up to date on its vaccinations. I know, no one ever enjoys a visit to the doctor’s or veterinarian’s office. I’ve been convinced, however, a few sticks with a needle to get my vaccinations is much better than being sick.
One of my colleagues at the Equine Science Center, Jennifer Weinert, put together some information about pasture renovation and I thought I would share it with you. Who knew keeping pastures in tip-top shape was such hard work?
Can you believe it’s already April? You know what that means, right? Ag Field Day is right around the corner. Come join us on April 27th at the Red Barn on College Farm Road for a fun-filled day! The Equine Science Center will have tables set up with our famous Lord Nelson horse sport bags from 10am-4pm.
Spring is definitely on the way. My friends and I are losing our long winter hair coats and new shoots of grass are beginning to appear in my pasture. These yummy little morsels are so tasty, but I have to graze right down to the ground to get them. This may be a bad idea I’ve been told. Grazing close to the ground like this and grazing grass that can be easily pulled up by the roots increases my chances of ingesting sand along with these yummy little treats. Yikes! I asked my friends at the Equine Science Center for a little help in finding out more about this potential problem. Read on to find out what I learned!
Although it’s hard to believe, spring will be here before we know it. The warming weather brings plenty of changes including nice fresh grass which is my favorite! As we move into a new season and a new year, it’s a good time to revisit your internal parasite control plan.
The thought of creepy little worms in my digestive tract is rather disconcerting, but I’m assured it’s a normal part of life. The American Association of Equine Practitioners suggests your parasite control plan should have three major goals:
It’s hard to believe, but 2019 has arrived and here at the Equine Science Center we are gearing up for the Horse Management Seminar. You don’t want to miss this year’s event entitled “Equine Reproduction: The Feeding and Care of the Mare/Foal, Stallion, and Growing Horse” which will take place on February 10, 2019.
The holiday season has arrived, and the smell of peppermint is in the air! One of my favorite parts of this season (besides all the yummy holiday treats) is seeing the decorations go up. Before you jump into decking the halls (excuse me, stalls) with holiday cheer, check out some pointers on keeping your four-legged friends safe.
I find myself waking to cool mornings and there are rumors that we will be seeing snow before too long. The winter brings plenty of fun festivities (look for my next blog for more details), but it can also bring more work and worry. Take a look at the following tips to minimize the hassle and make sure you have time to enjoy the holiday season!
It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again… “The Evening of Science and Celebration” will be on November 8th and it’s almost here!
The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Burt Staniar from Pennsylvania State University. I must say I am excited to learn “How Fiber Behaves in the Equine Gut” and I’ve heard rumors that Dr. Staniar can put on quite the show.
My first job at Rutgers University was on mounted patrol. I also carried the Scarlet Knight mascot at football games. One day I became famous when I got excited, stepped onto the field and became the only horse in history to receive a penalty in a football game! And I’m curious and mischievous! I love to be outside, so don’t ever leave my stall door open. I love all kinds of food – just about nothing at a picnic is safe. I also don’t like cheese puffs. That cheetah on the bag scares me to death! After 22 years on mounted patrol, I’m proud to be back, working for the Rutgers Equine Science Center and telling everyone what I know.
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