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Summer brings longer days, increased activity, and plenty of opportunities for backyard flocks to thrive. However, as temperatures climb, chickens can quickly become stressed by the heat. Excessive heat can impact egg production, feed intake, and overall flock health. By taking a few proactive steps, you can help your birds stay comfortable, productive, and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year. Recognizing Heat Stress in Chickens Unlike humans, chickens cannot sweat to cool themselves down. Instead, they regulate body temperature by panting and holding their wings away from their bodies. When temperatures rise, it's important to watch for signs...

Water is the most abundant nutrient in your pet’s body, making up 75-80 percent of their composition. Water transports vital nutrients and removes waste. With the critical nature of its function, it’s essential your pet takes in the water they need. In the summer months we often burn excessive amounts of water in the heat. If it is not replaced, dehydration occurs. For our pets, dehydration can occur more quickly because they get hot faster and do not sweat. Being aware of the threat of dehydration and how your pet responds to it can help you avoid it. Signs of...

At Cargill we’re working hard to help your hens live their best lives—and lay great eggs! Our new and improved NatureWise feeds now contain more Vitamin D3. What is this vitamin, and why is it important for your birds—and you? What is Vitamin D? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium. It also aids in muscle movement, strengthens the immune system, and improves nerve function. The two main forms of Vitamin D are Vitamin D2, which comes mainly from plant sources, and Vitamin D3, which is produced by animals (including humans) in response to sunlight....

As temperatures rise, proper hydration becomes one of the most important parts of summer animal care. Horses and livestock rely heavily on water to regulate body temperature, support digestion, and maintain overall health. During hot weather, dehydration and heat stress can happen quickly if animals don’t have enough access to clean, fresh water. Here are some important hydration tips to help keep your animals healthy and comfortable throughout the summer months. Understand How Much Water Animals Need Water intake increases significantly during hot weather. The amount varies depending on species, size, activity level, and temperature. On average: Horses may drink...

As pastures green up and temperatures rise, it’s important to reevaluate your livestock’s feed regimen. Whether you're raising cattle, goats, horses, chickens, or other farm animals, spring brings changes in forage availability, energy needs, and breeding cycles that should be reflected in your feed strategy. Here’s a quick guide to help you keep your animals healthy and productive this season: Cattle & Goats Grazing is in, hay is out – As pastures return, gradually transition livestock from hay to fresh forage to avoid digestive upset. Minerals matter – Provide free-choice mineral supplements to balance what fresh pasture may lack, especially...