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Last weekend we had the first snow of the season in northern New York. It did not last more than 24 hours, but it was a reminder that winter and cold weather are on the way, and we need to think about cold-weather precautions for our pets. Here are some safety tips: Know your pet’s limits: Pets, like people, vary in their ability to tolerate the cold based on breed, age, activity level and health. Dense-coated breeds such as Huskies, Malamutes and Chows have better cold tolerance than do short or long haired breeds. Short leg breeds may become chilled...

Cold temperatures and brisk winter air may be refreshing for a deep breath or brief outdoor walks, but winter leads to many air quality issues that can create severe respiratory problems in horses, particularly in barns. While barns may keep horses safe and warm in the winter, poor ventilation can lead to a range of health concerns. Fortunately, there are several ways to improve winter air quality and keep horses breathing easy. Winter Barn Air Quality and Horse Health Issues When horses are stabled in secure barns in winter, they are warm, but they are also at risk from poor...

Chickens are a surprisingly resilient bird where winter is concerned. This is especially true if your poultry belongs to one of the winter-hardy breeds such as Blue Andalusian, Dominique, Brahma, or Plymouth Rocks. Still, if a chicken coop is mismanaged or in poor shape during winter, the biting cold can  bring about disease and sure death to its occupants. Among the multitude of improvements and reinforcements you should make to prepare your chickens for winter, the following tips are the most essential to keep in mind. Good Air Flow Ensuring that your chickens stay warm during winter is paramount, but...

Throughout the year, tending to your horse’s needs requires you to be prepared for a variety of conditions. When the temperature falls and the winds grow colder, you should be prepared with the proper gear, supplies and accessories to keep your horse healthy and happy during the upcoming months. Learn more about caring for your horse during the winter so you can be prepared well before the first frost. Water and Food Food for Health and Warmth. Food digestion is a primary source of warmth for your horse, which means your horse’s caloric needs can increase during the colder months....

As the last heat wave of summer fades, bird feeders are disappearing from backyards. Most bird lovers assume that as the weather cools and mass migration sweeps in, their beloved winged friends don't need human assistance in finding food; they can forage for it themselves. Be a wise lover of birds this year; learn how to host diverse flocks  at your backyard buffet right up until winter. Offer High-Calorie Foods As they prepare to migrate, birds need nutritious foods rich in fat to sustain their energy. Be the best bird feeder on the block by offering high-calorie nibblets for them...