That noxious smell of ammonia in your livestock barn is more than just an assault to the nose; it’s a health risk to your animal – and to you, as well. Even low levels of ammonia can cause upper respiratory tract problems for livestock, putting them at risk for pneumonia and other serious illnesses, studies have revealed. Respiratory irritants can become major and costly health issues.
Help your livestock stay comfortable inside from harsh weather outside by winterizing your barn. A preparedness checklist to create a weathertight shelter should include these four things...
Using essential oils for health and wellness may seem to be the latest trend, but it’s hardly new. Since ancient times, essential oils have been used for their beneficial effects on humans and animals, according to the study, “Essential Oils as Feed Additives – Future Perspectives,” published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website. Essential oils have been widely used for anti-bacterial, anti-viral, insecticidal, anti-parasitical and anti-cancer purposes, the study says.
It is county fair season around the country, and whether your family is showing this year or in upcoming years, these tips may help bring home that blue ribbon. Emily Wilmes, an educator with the University of Minnesota Extension who specializes in livestock, offers these tips to help find success in the show ring…
Have you checked the ingredients on your animals’ feed? You might be surprised what’s in there. You’ve no doubt noticed that grain prices have increased cost for livestock feed. This, in turn, may have you searching for the cheapest feed out there. But what seems good for your pocketbook may not be so good for your animals. And, in the long run, it isn’t good for your pocketbook, either.