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Protein is all the buzz in the human health world, with products proudly boasting “more protein” or “high in protein.” Did you know that protein is just as important for your backyard poultry flock? Let’s dive into why protein is a superstar nutrient, especially for your new chicks! Why Protein Matters for Chicks Newly hatched chicks are growing and developing rapidly each day, and protein is the key nutrient that fuels this rapid growth. Protein is vital to the development of strong muscles, bones, and organs. Here’s a fun fact you may not have known: protein also plays a crucial...

As temperatures begin to warm across Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia, now is the time to start preparing for the growing season. A little work in March and April can prevent common problems and help plants perform better all summer long.  Refresh and prepare your soil Healthy soil is the foundation of every successful garden. Add compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrients, and avoid working soil when it’s too wet. Good preparation now encourages stronger root growth and better plant health later.  Choose plants that support pollinators Native plants are a reliable choice for our region and play an...

FAQs About Dogs with Sensitive Skin What are the dietary needs of a dog that has sensitive skin? If you’re a pet owner that’s trying to find the best food for your dog with sensitive skin, it’s important to read these frequently asked questions about ingredients, diet requirements, and what is guaranteed on your pet food label. In order to choose the best food for your dog, you have to know what factors go into their health and how to compare different products on the market.What are the common signs that my dog has sensitive skin?Common signs include, but are...

Feeding the overweight horse can be tough, but winter poses an even greater challenge with managing a delicate balance between providing enough energy to stay warm, yet not so much he is unable to shed those unwanted pounds. When considering the feeding program for your overweight horse, first take into consideration the forage type, quantity and frequency he is being fed. The overweight horse benefits most from grass hay over legume hay due to it’s reduced calorie content. Most overweight horses do best on grass hay with a ration balancer to provide balanced levels of necessary vitamins, minerals and amino...

Cows eat grass and hay. On a dry matter basis a cow will eat 4 to 5 tons of forage per year. As long as there is pasture for the cows to eat it is most economical to let them graze. When cattle are on grass the amount of forage consumed will determine how well they will perform, usually expressed in average daily gain (ADG). Growing beef cattle will consume approximately 2.5 percent of their body weight each day depending on forage conditions. It requires approximately 8 to 10 pounds of roughage for every pound of gain. If possible, the...