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Summer brings longer days, increased activity, and plenty of opportunities for backyard flocks to thrive. However, as temperatures climb, chickens can quickly become stressed by the heat. Excessive heat can impact egg production, feed intake, and overall flock health. By taking a few proactive steps, you can help your birds stay comfortable, productive, and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year. Recognizing Heat Stress in Chickens Unlike humans, chickens cannot sweat to cool themselves down. Instead, they regulate body temperature by panting and holding their wings away from their bodies. When temperatures rise, it's important to watch for signs...

As temperatures rise, proper hydration becomes one of the most important parts of summer animal care. Horses and livestock rely heavily on water to regulate body temperature, support digestion, and maintain overall health. During hot weather, dehydration and heat stress can happen quickly if animals don’t have enough access to clean, fresh water. Here are some important hydration tips to help keep your animals healthy and comfortable throughout the summer months. Understand How Much Water Animals Need Water intake increases significantly during hot weather. The amount varies depending on species, size, activity level, and temperature. On average: Horses may drink...

As pastures green up and temperatures rise, it’s important to reevaluate your livestock’s feed regimen. Whether you're raising cattle, goats, horses, chickens, or other farm animals, spring brings changes in forage availability, energy needs, and breeding cycles that should be reflected in your feed strategy. Here’s a quick guide to help you keep your animals healthy and productive this season: Cattle & Goats Grazing is in, hay is out – As pastures return, gradually transition livestock from hay to fresh forage to avoid digestive upset. Minerals matter – Provide free-choice mineral supplements to balance what fresh pasture may lack, especially...

Spring is chick season, and bringing home new baby chicks is an exciting time for both new and experienced flock owners. The first few weeks are the most important for setting your chicks up for healthy growth and a strong start in life. With the right preparation, supplies, and care routine, your new flock can thrive during those critical early weeks. Here’s a simple guide to help you care for your chicks during their first eight weeks. Prepare a Safe and Comfortable Brooder Before bringing chicks home, you’ll need to set up a brooder — a warm, protected space where...

Raising chickens isn’t complicated, but it can seem that way for novices who want to keep a small flock but lack mentors to learn from. Fortunately, the growing backyard chicken phenomenon is increasing acceptance of these docile animals in both cities and suburbia. So, how does a person with no chicken experience learn how to start and care for a backyard flock? It is really not difficult, and in many ways caring for chickens is similar to tending a family pet. Chickens, like dogs and cats, need safe housing and nutritious food. To help you understand the ins and outs...