Guide to Equine Health Care
Posted on July 29, 2007
An interesting newsletter for equine health care can be found here.
Kentucky horse farms and all other farms for that matter, have been under a drought advisory.
If you read this week’s article at the above referenced site, you’ll read that theres a toxic weed that can be found in drought affected pastures called hoary alyssum.
The article says in part:
“A member of the mustard family, it produces small white flowers and can grow one to three feet tall. Grayish-green “hairs” cover the stems, leaves, and seed pods. It is well-adapted to dry conditions and grows in drought-stressed, over-grazed pastures.
Horse owners need to learn to identify hoary alyssum and the signs of its toxicity in their animals. Bartlett warns that those who may feel that they don’t have to worry because they feed supplemental hay and grain should think again. Horses on pasture, even if they receive hay and grain, might graze on hoary alyssum if they find it in their fields. Though it is not preferred by most horses, they will nibble on it when other plants are not abundant due to overgrazing or drought.
Toxic symptoms in horses range from depression to stocking up (swelling in the lower legs), fever, and diarrhea.”
So, keep an eye out for this toxic plant in your pastures - and make sure that you get it removed as soon as possible.
We have a chance for rain in our area in Louisville KY and Shelbyville KY tonight through Friday, so hopefully we’ll get some rain.
» Filed Under Kentucky Horse Farms and Real Estate Tips, Louisville KY, Shelbyville KY
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