Last month we shared information about curriculum and resources available to lead urban livestock projects in urban and suburban areas. One reader came back to us with a great question: "If we don’t have bees, rabbits or chickens, can our youth still get involved with animal projects?" The answer is yes! If your family or club cannot commit to raising your own animals, there … [Read more...]
Career Profile- Large Animal Veterinarian – Jon E. Higgins, VMD
Name: Jon E. Higgins, VMD Job Title – Veterinarian and Veterinary Practice Owner Organization – Acorn Farmvets Education/Degree Earned – BS from the University of Vermont in Animal Science VMD – University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine If you were in 4-H, when and what club(s) were you a part of? How did 4-H help you grow as a professional? – … [Read more...]
Feeding Young Lambs
When lambs are born, usually on the one of the coldest days of the year, they need to get nourishment within the first hour of birth. The mother’s first milk (colostrum) “comes in” by the time the lamb(s) are ready to nurse. If not, be prepared to supplement with a powdered colostrum from your local feed store. They may drink about 4-6 oz. By the time they’re hungry again, … [Read more...]
Market Lamb Selection: Finding the Cream of the Flock, Part 2
In our first blog post, we began the process of planning to find just the right lamb for your 4-H market project. I hope you have been studying up on the parts of the lamb, good conformation traits and determining what size lamb you will need. Now, let’s take a look at your next big steps. The Search for the Right Match Now it’s time for the second phase of your planning. … [Read more...]
Understanding Lambing Behavior
Lambing can be a stressful time for both shepherd and sheep alike. Understanding different behavioral signs in sheep provides insight for shepherds when making management decisions. Behavioral signs often precede other physical signs and can be used as an early detection system. Remember, not all ewes will exhibit all of behaviors described below. They tend to be more common … [Read more...]
Market Lamb Selection: Finding the Cream of the Flock, Part 1
A 4-H market lamb project is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity for youth members. You will develop important life skills through practicing smart planning and good management techniques. From the beginning of your project to the end, usually between 5-7 months, success will depend on four things: smart selection, strong management, proper nutrition, and … [Read more...]
4 Reasons to Join Us at the Junior Breeder Livestock Symposium, April 7
The Junior Breeder Livestock Symposium is held each year at the Cook Campus Farm of Rutgers University in New Brunswick. It is a great opportunity for 4-H members and their adults to learn about animals – including beef and dairy cattle, goats, horses, rabbits, and sheep. Here are four reasons to join us at Rutgers on April 7. Learn STEM – genetics, meat science, … [Read more...]