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It is true that during the winter months riding your horse can become a scarce occasion.  This means that your horse’s diet must also change.  Since the horse is not as active during these cold months, it requires fewer calories.  It was once believed that feeding your horse more corn during these inactive months is better for keeping the horse warm, but now science has discovered hay is better at converting calories into heat and also promotes good gastrointestinal health as well as helps to preserve the horse’s weight.  The horse’s diet should be at least 50% if not all...

Chickens are becoming more and more widespread in suburban areas, and a backyard flock can be a wonderful part of sustainable living. To keep your chickens healthy, comfortable, and productive in winter, however, it is important to provide them with the proper cold weather care. Can Your Chickens Care for Themselves in Winter? Chickens are well-adapted to survive even very cold winter weather. Their feathers provide excellent insulation, and the birds can fluff their feathers to create an even warmer coat. They may even tuck their bills or feet into fluffy feathers to keep those bare parts warm. On sunny...

In many homes, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree is the undisputed centerpiece of holiday decorations. Unfortunately, the garlands, tinsel, lights, and ornaments are just as attractive to pets, but can be dangerous if cats and dogs decide this unusual tree is a new and fascinating toy. There are several ways you can keep your pets and tree apart, however, without harming either one. Dangers of Christmas Trees Despite their beauty, Christmas trees hide some very ugly dangers to pets, such as: Shocks or electrocution from chewing on light cords Injuries from sharp needles or illness from toxic oils in the...

Nuts are always popular treats, not just as an easy snack, but also in all sorts of baked goodies and other recipes. It is important that dog owners not share many of those snacks and treats with their pets, however, because of the different nut dangers to dogs. Understanding those dangers can help dog owners keep their pets safe. Some Nuts Are Okay – In Moderation When dog owners first learn that nuts can be dangerous to dogs, they may be shocked to see peanut and peanut butter-flavored treats available for dogs from pet stores, major retailers and even specialty...

Late fall and early winter may not seem like great times to be active in the garden, but in many areas, there are still tasks that need to be completed. In regions with milder climates, November can be a great time for wrapping up autumn gardening chores, and every gardener should take steps to keep their beds in great shape right up to the first heavy snowfall. In November, gardeners should… Keep RakingAs leaves keep falling, they build up on the lawn and garden, creating thick mats that are hard to remove in spring. Raking throughout November will minimize leftover...