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People and chickens operate on different schedules that sometimes conflict. As days shorten and the temperature drops people turn on furnaces and electric lights and sleep about as many hours as they do in summer. Not chickens. Their daily schedule is set by daylight. Lacking artificial light they settle into a long night’s sleep as soon as dusk arrives and don’t wake until tomorrow’s dawn. In high latitudes they often sleep 15 or 16 hours a night. For chickens, winter is a time for rest, not reproduction. Cold temperatures don’t reduce laying, but as fall advances, decreasing daylight causes egg...

Tis the season to be jolly! It is also the season to be more diligent at keeping our pets safe and healthy over the holidays. With holiday parties, trees, tinsel, candles and presents, our pets are at a greater risk to get into trouble. Here are a few holiday safety tips to keep them safe. The tree: With pets in the house, it is safest to place the tree in the corner. This will make it easier to anchor the top of the tree so climbing cats don't knock it over. Also, use a tree stand that is one size...

While your dog or cat's quality and length of life depend on various factors like age, disease, and breed, one often overlooked component is weight. If your cat or dog is overweight, it could potentially raise the risk of various diseases and injuries, and overall, make it harder for your pet to live a long and healthy life. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight can be difficult, but you can start implementing some best practices with these tips. Check if Your Pet is Overweight Though some fat on your pet is normal, too much could interfere with their health....

As the vibrant colors of autumn leaves begin to paint the landscape, it’s a reminder that colder weather is on its way. For farmers and animal caretakers, this season brings unique challenges and opportunities to ensure their animals remain healthy and thriving. Here are some essential tips to keep your livestock in top condition as temperatures drop. 1. Adjust Feed Rations With the onset of cooler weather, animals require more energy to maintain their body temperature. This means adjusting their feed rations to include more energy-dense foods. Consider incorporating grains like corn and barley, which provide the necessary calories to...

As the vibrant colors of fall begin to fade and the crisp air sets in, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your home for the winter months ahead. Proper maintenance during the fall can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm and cozy all winter long. Here are some essential tips and tricks to get your home winter-ready. 1. Inspect and Clean Gutters Falling leaves can quickly clog your gutters, leading to water damage and ice dams. Make sure to clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Consider installing gutter guards to...