February is here, and that mean’s Valentine’s Day! What better time to think about the heart of a horse? Of course your horse has “heart” – he jumps that jump from a distance you know was way too long, and he’ll walk across the scary stream on the trail because you ask him to do so. And, of course, he gives you kisses when you provide treats! What about the actual heart of a horse?
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Water is one of the most important things for a horse, especially in winter! Did you know that adequate water intake is one of the best ways to help prevent colic? That’s just one of the many reasons why it’s so critical to keep water clean, free of ice, and readily available for horses to drink anytime.
On a cold day, it’s nice for my human friends to go inside and have a cup of hot chocolate. Unfortunately, they tell me horses shouldn’t have chocolate, and there is no horsey equivalent. There have been reports, though, that horses prefer to drink warm water. Makes sense to me, but is there science to support that?!? You bet there is!
With the holiday season upon us, you may catch your parents smooching “under the mistletoe.” Traditionally, couples kiss under this decorative plant, which has light pink, oval shaped berries. But did you know that mistletoe is toxic to horses, dogs, cats and livestock if eaten??
The formal name for plants in the mistletoe family is Loranthaceae which can be found throughout the United States. Mistletoe likes to grow in deciduous (trees that shed leaves annually) hardwood trees, especially oak, and typically produces small flowers from May-July.
November is here and do you know what that means?? “An Evening of Science and Celebration” is coming on Thursday, November 17th!
You don’t want to miss this. For starters, it’s become a tradition for our Horse Heroes to showcase their equine skills on the treadmill – it’s a demonstration that will amaze you! Not only that, but the horses will be available for autographs after they “WOW” you with their performance.
Do you know that there are some great forage alternatives? Maybe your pastures are looking a little dry, or maybe you don’t have pasture at all! There are a number of ways to supplement important fiber and forage for your horse, and here, we’ll talk about three of my favorites (besides doughnuts and fresh hay) – hay cubes, hay pellets and beet pulp.
Hay Everyone!
We’re well into the summer show season, and it’s also the time of year when we’re lucky to take our horses out trail riding, or even on vacation with us! Did you know that you have to have a current Coggins test, dated within the past 24 months, to transport your horse on New Jersey’s roads (and within 12 months to other states)? Warm summer weather also brings with it pesky insects like horse flies and mosquitoes which can put horses’ health at risk if they have not had their annual spring vaccinations.
Treadmills, horses and games! And it’s FREE! The Equine Summer Showcase is this coming Wednesday, July 13 from 10:00am – 12:00pm at the Cook Campus Red Barn.
Happy Birthday America!
As Independence Day approaches, you’re probably making plans to take in a fireworks show, host a party with friends or attend a parade. I do love a parade! After all, I used to perform in front of a football stadium full of adoring fans….but I digress.
Spring has sprung….and so has the grass!!!!Pixie & Epi Graze
By now, pasture grasses are growing like crazy, and horses are happy to munch away. There are a few things you should keep in mind when turning your horses out.
Ag Field Day at Rutgers Day is coming on April 30, from 10am – 4pm, and I’m so excited! My friends in the research herd will show their stuff on the treadmill, and answer YOUR questions about anything and everything that happens in the Equine Exercise Physiology Laboratory.
WHAT?!? You’ve never seen a horse on a treadmill?? Well, now’s your chance!! It’s really pretty cool. There will be TWO treadmill demos, the first at 1:00pm and the second at 2:00pm sharp! Late-comers will not be admitted in order to ensure the safety of our horses and guests. You’ve seen the video, you’ve played the game, “Exercising Horse Power”. Now see it for real!
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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