Store hay in a dry environment with some space between bales. | ThinkstockQ. I have a small farm with only four horses, but I like to buy feed and hay in bulk to reduce the number of trips to the feed store. What is the best way to store each, so they stay fresh for my horses and maintain their nutritional value?A. Buying grain and hay in bulk for horses offers several benefits. It can not only reduce trips made to the store but also save you money. However, disadvantages include potential loss of nutrient content, increased incidence of spoilage (often from mold), and potential infestation of vermin or bugs. Spoilage and pest infestation can potentially make your horse ill, so always be observant for any issues.Storing Horse Hay in BulkHorse owners most often buy square-baled hay in bulk because it can last for a year or more with minimal nutrient loss if stored properly. Keep hay in a dry environment, off the ground. Wooden pallets are a common and inexpensive way to provide space between the hay and the ground. If you need to store hay outside, lay waterproof tarps over it. In any storage situation, although you might be tempted to stack and pack hay bales tightly, you need to have airflow around the bales. This will help prevent moisture accumulation, either from absorption from the ground or leaks in the roof, which can cause hay to mold.Closely monitor recently harvested hay for heat. As hay dries and cures it will become hot and, if it reaches a critical temperature of 150-170 F, it can combust. Ideally, hay should not get hotter than 120 F during the curing process. If you buy recently harvested hay, stack it loosely so heat doesnt accumulate between bales. You can purchase a hay thermometer to monitor the temperature. Pull any bales that reach 150 F. Excessive heat can accumulate when hay is baled wet, with a moisture level of 25-35% moisture, instead of the ideal 16-20% or lower. If possible, store hay in a separate building away from the barn to reduce the risk of barn fires due to hay combustion.Storing Horse Feed in BulkYou can buy commercial feeds in bulk, but they have a shorter shelf life than hay. In ideal conditions (dry and a moderate temperature), bagged feeds can often be stored for 30-60 days, on average. In cooler and drier conditions you might be able to store it for four to six months. In hot and humid weather the storage time decreases to about three to six weeks, unless you store them in a cool (air-conditioned) space. Like hay, keep bagged feeds off the ground, such as on pallets. You can also keep them in rodent-proof containers. Once bags are open, keep them in a rodent-proof bin and feed them within two weeks. Monitor all feed for mold.Feed manufacturers put production dates on their bags, and some will include a feed by date. Learn how to read this coding because feed that has been stored at the mill or feed store will have a shorter lifespan at your farm. Pelleted feeds, due to processing and heat treatment, tend to last longer in storage than feeds containing molasses and oils.With both hay and feed, adopt a first in, first out mentality. Make sure to rotate feed and hay so you use the oldest first. If your providers are delivering feed to the farm and stacking it for you, be sure they rotate the bags, keeping the older ones on top or moving them out of the way.Take-Home MessageBuying feed and hay for your horses in bulk might help you save money. However, you need to have adequate storage space to keep feeds out of the elements and extreme temperatures. Keep stored hay and grains off the ground so they dont accumulate moisture and then mold. Make sure you can use up your concentrates before the expiration date (or shortly after), and store opened feed in rodent-proof containers.

Key Points Details Material Softwood such as white pine, spruce, or fir for absorbency and reduced respiratory issues. Dust Content Choose dust-screened shavings to prevent respiratory and eye irritation. Moisture Content Kiln-dried shavings are preferred for higher absorbency and mold prevention. Flake Size Medium and mini flake sizes for comfort and ease of maintenance. Top Supplier: Klassen Wood Co. Offers premium products such as Showflake, Showblend, and Northwest Pine, with options for pickup and delivery. Top Supplier: Champion Shavings Features bulk wood flake bedding, 100% dust-screened, and kiln-dried products with reliable shipping. Top Supplier: Cashman's Provides dust-free bedding with various flake sizes, available for in-store pickup. Compare Prices Evaluate different suppliers for the best value. Look for Bulk Discounts Buying in bulk from suppliers like Champion Shavings and Klassen Wood Co. can save money. Check for Special Offers Watch for promotions from retailers like Cashman's. Consider Delivery Costs Factor in delivery expenses from suppliers with multiple facilities. Conclusion Opt for reputable suppliers and take advantage of discounts to provide quality bedding while staying on budget. Where to Find the Best Deals on Pallet Shavings for Your Horse's BeddingWhen it comes to ensuring your beloved horse's comfort and health, the quality and cost of their bedding are crucial factors to consider. Pallet shavings, particularly those made from high-quality wood, are a popular choice for horse owners due to their absorbency, comfort, and ease of maintenance. Heres a comprehensive guide to help you find the best deals on pallet shavings for your horse's bedding. Understanding the Quality of Pallet ShavingsBefore diving into where to find the best deals, it's essential to understand what makes high-quality pallet shavings. Several key factors can make a significant difference:MaterialLook for shavings made from softwood, such as white pine, spruce, or fir. These materials are generally more absorbent and less likely to cause respiratory issues compared to hardwoods or cedar.Dust ContentOpt for dust-screened shavings to minimize the risk of respiratory problems and eye irritation for your horses. Companies like Champion Shavings and Klassen Wood Co. ensure their products are 100% dust-screened.Moisture ContentKiln-dried shavings have lower moisture content, which enhances their absorbency and reduces the risk of mold and spores. Both Champion Shavings and Klassen Wood Co. offer kiln-dried and heat-treated shavings.Flake SizeThe flake size can affect the ease of mucking out stalls. Medium and mini flake sizes are often preferred for their balance between comfort and ease of maintenance. Top Suppliers for Pallet ShavingsNow that you know what makes high-quality shavings, it's time to explore some of the top suppliers offering excellent products at competitive prices:Klassen Wood Co.Klassen Wood Co. is a well-regarded supplier known for its premium wood shavings. Some of their key offerings include: Showflake Ultra-Soft White Pine: Their premium bedding with maximum loft and high absorbency. Made from 100% Canadian white pine and is mold, dust, and spore-free. Showblend: A highly affordable bedding option combining 30% white pine and 70% spruce-fir, tightly compressed and easy to muck out. Northwest Pine: Clean and dust-screened pine shavings perfect for livestock shows and stables.Klassen Wood Co. offers reliable distribution and competitive pricing, with options for pickup and delivery in the Greater Vancouver area. Champion ShavingsChampion Shavings is another top-tier supplier ensuring high-quality wood flake bedding. Here are some features that stand out: Bulk Wood Flake Bedding: Softwood lumber shavings that are 100% dust-screened and kiln-dried, with guaranteed labeled expanded volume and reliable shipping. Multiple manufacturing facilities, which minimize delivery costs and time, ensuring fast and reliable shipments.Cashman'sCashman's is a trusted retailer that carries a variety of horse stall bedding, including high-quality wood shavings. They emphasize dust-free bedding and offer various flake sizes to suit different needs. Their products are conveniently available for in-store pickup. How to Find the Best DealsFinding great deals on pallet shavings involves a combination of research and smart purchasing strategies. Consider these tips:Compare PricesCheck the prices offered by different suppliers. For instance, Klassen Wood Co.'s Showblend is priced competitively. Compare these with other suppliers to find the best value for your money.Look for Bulk DiscountsBuying in bulk can lead to significant savings. Both Champion Shavings and Klassen Wood Co. offer bulk purchasing options that can reduce the overall cost per bale.Check for Special OffersKeep an eye out for special offers or promotions. Retailers like Cashman's may periodically offer discounts or bundle deals that save you money.Consider Delivery CostsThe cost of delivery can add up quickly. Suppliers like Champion Shavings and Klassen Wood Co. with multiple manufacturing facilities often provide faster and more cost-effective delivery options.ConclusionFinding the best deals on pallet shavings for your horse's bedding involves a combination of understanding what makes high-quality shavings, identifying reputable suppliers, and taking advantage of bulk discounts and special offers. By choosing suppliers like Klassen Wood Co., Champion Shavings, and Cashman's, you can ensure your horse receives the best possible bedding while staying within your budget.For more detailed information on each supplier's products and pricing, visit their websites: Klassen Wood Co. Champion Shavings Cashman'sDoing your research and comparing options allows you to make an informed decision that prioritizes your horse's comfort and your financial efficiency.```html```

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency recently confirmed an equine infectious anemia (EIA) case in Meadow Lake No. 588, Saskatchewan.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.

Two horses in Spokane County, Washington, recently tested positive for neurologic equine herpesvirus (EHV). The cases are located at a facility where multiple roping/training events happen weekly. The first horse was a boarder that went down and was euthanized on November 14. The second exposed horse went down on November 16 and died the next day. One additional case is suspected, and veterinarians are working on tracing additional exposed horses.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.RELATED CONTENT: Everything You Need to Know About EHV-1In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.

On November 15, two horses at a boarding facility in Washington County, Wisconsin, tested positive for equine influenza. The affected horses include a weanling Appaloosa colt and a 3-year-old Saddlebred gelding. One additional case is suspected.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About Equine InfluenzaEquine influenzais a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects horses, ponies, and other equids, such as donkeys, mules, and zebras. The virus that causes it is spread via saliva and respiratory secretions from infected horses. Horses are commonly exposed via horse-to-horse contact; aerosol transmission from coughing and sneezing; and contact with humans contaminated hands, shoes, or clothes or contaminated tack, buckets, or other equipment.Clinical signs of equine influenza infection can include a high fever (up to 106F); a dry, hacking cough; depression; weakness; anorexia; serous (watery) nasal discharge; and slightly enlarged lymph nodes. Consider monitoring your horses health at shows by taking his temperature daily, which can help you pick up on signs of infection early and take appropriate measures to reduce disease spread.Vaccinationis an important and inexpensive way to protect your horse. US Equestrian requires proof that horses have had an equine influenza vaccination within the six months prior to attending organization-sanctioned competitions or events. Your veterinarian can help you determine what other vaccines your horse might benefit from.In addition to vaccinating, following strictbiosecurity protocolscan help reduce your horses chance of infection and disease. Such measures include quarantining new equine arrivals at barns, disinfecting buckets and equipment, and preventing nose-to-nose contact between horses.Click hereto read common questions and answers about equine influenza.

A 19-year-old Paint mare in Chemung County, New York, recently tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). The mare, who was under-vaccinated, developed clinical signs on November 4, including ataxia, bruxism, excessive chewing, tachycardia, and depression. She was euthanized.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EEE 101Eastern equine encephalomyelitis is caused by the Eastern equine encephalitis virus, for which wild birds are a natural reservoir. Mosquitoes that feed on EEE-infected birds can transmit the virus to humans, horses, and other birds. Horses do not develop high enough levels of these viruses in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. Because of the high mortality rate in horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.VIDEO | Health Alert: EEE, WEE, and VEETips for preventing mosquito-borne diseases include:Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn.Look for EPA-labeled products containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin (KBR3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8-diol).Apply more repellent, according to label instructions, if mosquitoes start to bite.Mosquito-proof homes: Fix or install window and door screens, and cover or eliminate empty containers with standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.Protect your horses: Veterinarians recommend commercially available licensedvaccines against EEE for all horses in the U.S. Horses should be vaccinated at least annually (recommendations vary in high-risk areas). Its not too late this year to vaccinate your horses.Use approved insect repellents to protect horses.If possible, put horses in stables, stalls, or barns during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn.Eliminate standing water, drain water troughs, and empty buckets at least weekly.Stock water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae (contact your local mosquito control for assistance), or use mosquito dunks (soliddonuts ofBacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which are nontoxic to horses) available at hardware stores.

On November 16, a 20-year-old Quarter Horse mare in MRC Haut-Saint-Laurent, Quebec, tested positive for anaplasmosis. The mare developed clinical signs on November 8, including fever, incoordination, and sweating. She has recovered.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About AnaplasmosisAnaplasmosis is a common, seasonal, non-contagious, tick-transmitted disease observed where theIxodestick vector is found. Horses might display acute clinical signs including lethargy, biphasic fever, and reduced appetite. These are often followed by more severe signs, including icterus, limb edema, mucous membrane petechiation, and reluctance to move. Horses usually recover over a two- to three-week period.

One horse in Sturkie County, Arkansas, recently tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). No additional details are available.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

Your veterinarian might prescribe antimicrobials for your horse if he has a wound at risk of infection. | Adobe StockVeterinarians prescribe antimicrobials to eliminate harmful bacteria that might cause illness or complicate wound healing in horses. However, antimicrobial resistance can develop in equid populations if people use these medications inappropriately, making it more challenging to treat infections in horses in the future. Using antimicrobials safely and only as directed by your veterinarian can help protect your horse from future complications due to resistant bacteria.To help horse owners better understand equine antimicrobial use, TheHorse.com has partnered with W.F. Young for Equine Antimicrobial Awareness Week, starting Nov. 18, 2024.Look for antimicrobial content all week on TheHorse.com, our Facebook page, and in our newsletters.