Raw is the pinnacle of pet nutrition. The ideal diet for an individual dog or cat is the one that produces the best long-term results. A pet’s diet should be balanced in calories, protein and other nutrients to maintain an optimum condition, rather than conform to some standard that doesn’t apply to his or her lifestyle. Research at the University of Helsinki is bringing new relevance to raw feeding research. The DogRisk study was initiated by Dr. Anna Hielm-Bjorkman with the School of … [Read more...] about Studying the Science of Raw
Cheyenne Brown
Is Cheaper Feed Really Cheaper to Feed?
There are several factors that go into what you choose to feed your horses. With commodity prices on the rise, price per bag is probably high on the list – but when you break it down, the cheapest bag you can buy might not actually be the cheapest way to ensure your horse gets the nutrients he needs. The three types of formulas are constant nutrition, fixed formula and least-cost formula. Constant nutrition formulas use the same nutrition in every bag. This means all the ingredients in a bag … [Read more...] about Is Cheaper Feed Really Cheaper to Feed?
Horses, ‘Hot’ Feeds, Misconceptions
Over the years, I have worked for several horse trainers. Each barn had its own program in regard to training, routines and, of course, feed. Some trainers had their horses on schedules of feeding that entailed only forage (grass hay, alfalfa or a mixture of both) in the mornings and evenings, with “lunch” being supplement time: grain and various other supplements. Others fed forage and supplements simultaneously, morning and evening. Some fed only forage, with no supplements at all, with the … [Read more...] about Horses, ‘Hot’ Feeds, Misconceptions
Animal Enrichment: Rethinking Pet Toys
When you think of a dog toy, what comes to mind? Is it a tennis ball, a squeaky toy shaped like some other animal, or a simple rope? There is no doubt that pet retailers have plenty of options. In my experience, it doesn’t take much to entertain my dog – a football with a squeaker in the middle is just fine for her to play fetch with. The problem is, as we know, fetch requires a person to throw the ball. Since I work in an office, on days that I bring my energetic young dog with me to work, I … [Read more...] about Animal Enrichment: Rethinking Pet Toys
Miniature But Mighty
We are all likely familiar with the saying “Enjoy the little things.” Olsen’s Grain employee Michelle Whan is no stranger to the fact that good things come in small packages – namely, her miniature horses. Whan has been involved with miniature horses for a very long time and shared some of the amazing things she has done with minis in order to enrich the lives of others. You have probably heard of therapy dogs. But what about therapy miniature horses? Whan, alongside Horses With Heart, a … [Read more...] about Miniature But Mighty
Attracting Wild Birds to Your Yard
The weather is getting better, and any excuse to sit outside and enjoy this spring warmth is probably welcome. Northern Arizona is full of beautiful scenery and sites for adventure, but you can enjoy one of Arizona’s beautiful sights in your very own yard: wild birds! How familiar are you with the wild birds in your area? Do you know how to attract them to your yard? It seems simple enough: hang a feeder and wait. But there really is more to it. Everything from squirrels to plants can affect … [Read more...] about Attracting Wild Birds to Your Yard
Ways to Stay Moving With Your Dog
As hard as it may be to believe we are already in the fourth month of 2021, did you know that April is National Active Dog month? If you ever needed an excuse to get creative with ways to keep your dog (and yourself) moving, now is the time! I’m going to share with you some of the fun ways I’ve stayed active with my pup. The weather is getting warmer, so let’s get moving! A classic game of fetch or soccer are great activities that keep your dog energized and moving. Simply kicking a ball … [Read more...] about Ways to Stay Moving With Your Dog
Does Your Horse Have a Drinking Problem?
Are you one of the many horse owners who worries about your horse lacking hydration during the winter months? Keeping your horse hydrated is crucial, especially during the cold spells that can make drinking uncomfortable and unappealing to your equine pals. Not drinking enough can lead to serious issues like dehydration and impaction – a blockage in your horse’s intestine, caused usually by masses of feed or sand/dirt. In short, not having enough water reduces the moisture in your horse’s gut … [Read more...] about Does Your Horse Have a Drinking Problem?
