Farming may seem antiquated to some, but it is still one of the most important industries in the world. After all, if it weren’t for family farms, we wouldn’t have fresh vegetables, milk and a myriad of other essential products available at our local grocery stores for consumption. Keeping every element of a farm running smoothly requires a number of skills that all have a bit of a learning curve attached to each. At the top of this list is the daily care of farm animals, a major element of the success of any farm.
During the winter months and bad weather, it is still important for your farm animals to get exercise and time for recreation. It may seem like a tall order, but there are certainly ways to keep your animals comfortable, no matter how bad the season is. Here are some tips for the winter care of your farm animals:
Run In Sheds & Shelters – As we just mentioned, it is crucial that your animals get much-needed exercise and recreation time throughout the entire year, not just when the weather agrees. By setting up a run-in shed (primarily for horses) or temporary shelter, you can provide your stock with these activities.
Ventilation – No matter what type of housing you provide for your ani
mals in the winter, you need to make sure there is proper venting set up in the structure. This step ensures a disease-free and comfortable environment for your animals. If you do not have ventilation in any of your temporary structures, a simple vent kit will help you add this feature. Note that keeping any vents clean is a task that should be completed regularly.
Add Straw – Cold weather is a hazard to your farm animals, even though many have thick coats of fur. Make sure your farm is stocked with extra straw to prevent wet bedding and offer extra coverage for warmth.