(Editor’s note: This is part one of a two-part series) For Joanne Powell, no two days are the same. Joanne is the Research Farm Supervisor for the large animal unit at Rutgers University. Having grown up on a farm herself, she appreciates not only the rewards of a hard day’s work, but also being able to spend time outdoors with animals. We recently reached out to … [Read more...]
Rabies – Protecting Your Rabbits and Small Animals
What is Rabies? Rabies is a deadly disease of animals and humans. It is endemic in New Jersey and there are over 300 cases in the state every year. Rabies is a virus that attacks the central nervous system in mammals (warm-blooded animals). The virus is present primarily in the saliva, brain tissue, and spinal fluid of a rabid animal and is transmitted by a bite, … [Read more...]
Tips for a Positive Vacation Experience for Your Dog
So, you’ve just booked your big vacation. But who’s going to watch the dog? Our beloved pets are not always welcome to come along with us when we travel. While some owners choose to have a friend or family member care for their dog, others choose to check their pet into an overnight boarding facility. Boarding your pet can be a daunting experience, especially the first … [Read more...]
Pullorum-Typhoid Disease
Are your chickens and other birds Pullorum-Typhoid Disease free? As you are making plans to show or exhibit your poultry and fowl at County 4-H Fairs and other public venues this summer, be sure to make arrangements to have your chickens and other birds tested by a certified tester to document that they are Pullorum-Typhoid clean. What is Pullorum Disease and Fowl … [Read more...]
eXtension – A Wealth of (Really Good) Information for Your 4-H Goat Project
Are you new to raising goats? Do you need information on how to get started? Do you know what breed you want? Do you know what kind of facilities and space you’ll need? Need information specifically for dairy, meat, and/or fiber goats? Would you like help setting up a budget? Looking for information on how to control predators, how to manage your pastures, how to trim … [Read more...]
Protecting Your Poultry – Biosecurity
When raising poultry and waterfowl, it is important to protect your animals and prevent the spread of Avian Influenza and other diseases with biosecurity practices. The acronym WISER helps us to remember how to protect your birds and prevent the spread of diseases. Watch your birds. Look at your birds daily to make sure that they are healthy. Isolate – it is important to … [Read more...]