I recently rediscovered podcasts. What a fun way to learn new things! I’ve found out that you can find a podcast on almost any subject. Even more exciting than listening to a podcast is listening to a podcast where someone you know is the guest star!
Having students back on campus is so much fun! They bring energy and enthusiasm to all of us working here. This is just one of the reasons Fall is my favorite time of the year. I am also really excited this year because the Animal Science Department has welcomed several new faculty members to its ranks. One of these, Dr. Taylor Ross, will also be a member of the Equine Science Center because of her background in and passion for horses. I thought all of you might like to meet her, especially since you’re likely to see her at future 4-H events.
I am happy to share that I am returning to my series on careers in the equine industry. This week I traveled to Northern New Jersey to interview Dr. Sarah Gold, a veterinarian with Furlong’s Soundness Center who specializes in rehabilitation. I got to see their cool facility and equipment while I was there! The staff made sure I was warmly welcomed, and I may have even sneaked a few treats out of them! Keep reading to find out more about Dr. Gold and her team!
I am so excited!! Students are moving in on campus. It’s hard to believe another year has rolled by and we are ready to start another great school year. In the past, I’ve shared with you some ways we can keep ourselves healthy and performing at peak levels during the entire school year. This includes things like getting a good night’s sleep and staying fit with regular exercise. Diet is another important factor to consider as you evaluate your lifestyle and how to perform your very best this school year.
If you’ve been paying attention to the world of horse racing, you’ll know it has been a summer of upsets. Rich Strike pulled out a surprising win as an 80 to 1 long shot in the Kentucky Derby. Just this past weekend Cool Papa Bell made history by pulling off the biggest upset in the history of the Hambletonian at 52 to 1 odds. I’ve always loved a good underdog story, so this summer has been an exciting one for me! While horse racing has offered some exciting spectacles this summer, there have been plenty of other things going on. One of these exciting events was the recent Hambletonian Continuing Education Seminar.
Have you ever stood in the feed store aisle and contemplated the vast array of supplements lining the shelves? I have and, whew, it’s exhausting. How do you sort through this massive amount of information to decide whether your horse needs a supplement and if so, which one? Well, our very own Dr. Carey Williams has authored a factsheet to help guide you through this decision making process. If you want all the details, you should visit the factsheet online. I’m going to go ahead and give you a brief recap with some of the important points in today’s blog.
I know it’s been a while, but I’m excited to be bringing you the latest post in my careers in the equine industry series! This is one of my favorite series to revisit because I get to learn so much about the equine industry and the people who work in it. I’m especially excited for this week’s dive into the life of a hay producer because we get to talk about one of my favorite things – hay!! This week I interviewed Mr. Ryck Suydam, a hay producer and farmer in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Next week will be a time of picnics and relaxation for many people here in the United States. While these festivities are a fun way to spend a summer day, the fireworks lighting up the evening sky as night falls can be a cause of anxiety and concern for many. Among those who may dislike the loud noises fireworks produce are my four-legged friends. Convincing your neighbors and towns to not have fireworks is probably unrealistic, but there are still some steps you can take to keep you and your horse safe this 4th of July!
This summer is already flying by! The Month of the Horse is halfway over. I hope you enjoyed New Jersey Equestrian Safety Week and were able to purchase some new safety gear! With July quickly approaching, that means the annual Summer Showcase is also quickly approaching! Join us on Wednesday, July 13th for a fun and educational day on campus. We are back in-person this year. Yippee!!
Do you remember me promising you another exciting surprise for the Month of the Horse? Well, it’s here! This year the Month of the Horse will include an Equestrian Safety Awareness Week. Equestrian Safety Week will be June 5th through 11th this year. This is the perfect time to check your tack room and make sure all that safety equipment is up to date. If it’s not, you might want to visit your local tack store to replace or purchase what you need. Many of the New Jersey tack stores will be offering discounts. Watch our social media accounts for a full listing of the tack stores offering discounts during Equestrian Safety Week. Let’s take a quick look at some important considerations for keeping yourself safe around horses.
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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