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...]
“How Swine-wise Are You?” – The Things You Learn (AND REMEMBER!) In 4-H
One of the stars of the ABC sitcom Modern Family is Emmy Award winning actor Eric Stonestreet. A native of Kansas City, Kansas, Eric is a proud 4-H alum. In June of 2017, Eric was a guest on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. As most guests do, Eric spent a large part of the interview discussing his ongoing projects (such as Modern Family). At around the 6:20 mark of the … [Read more...]
What does a herpetologist do on their summer vacation?
For Dr. Sara Ruane, summer 2018 was a whirlwind of travel and science! Here’s her account of what being a professor specializing in herpetology is like. April/May-Lamanai, Belize The first big trip I did for 2018 was in April/May to Belize for two weeks, accompanying my former PhD adviser Frank Burbrink from the American Museum of Natural History, and a bunch of … [Read more...]
Snug as a bug in an Alpaca fiber rug….
Alpaca wool is just like sheep wool right? Well, not exactly. It is quite a misconception that the wool you get from an alpaca is the same as the wool you get from a sheep. Alpaca wool is usually called “fiber” or “fleece” instead of wool to help differentiate it from a sheep’s wool. So what’s the difference? In general, alpaca fleece is stronger, lighter, warmer, and … [Read more...]
Poisonous vs. Venomous – What’s the difference?
One of the most common questions asked to herp aficionados is, “Is that snake poisonous?” This is also one of the more frustrating questions, and the terminology “poisonous snake” is used all the time. With a few exceptions, the answer is emphatically NO. BUT – there are a number of venomous snakes! So, what’s the difference? VENOMOUS: It injects toxins … [Read more...]
Preparing for Show Season – Biosecurity
Now that spring is here, it is time to start preparing for the horse shows. One of the most important steps to prepare your horse is to schedule a spring health check and vaccinations with your veterinarian. There are several mandatory and recommended shots your horse must have to be able to compete in 4-H horse shows. For the most up to date information on these vaccination … [Read more...]
Ick! A New Tick in New Jersey
The weather is warm which means it's time to get outside with your dog! There is so much to do in the Garden State for dogs and their owners. Trips to dog-friendly beaches, hiking in state parks, and community festivals are just some of the many outdoor opportunities for you and your pup. While enjoying this season's outdoor activities, make sure you take proper precautions … [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...]
I’m Pining for the NJ Pine Barrens
The Garden State is known for corn, tomatoes and blueberries. New Jersey is the “Diner Capital of the World” and home of the famous Taylor Ham vs Pork Roll debate as well as the Jersey Shore. But, did you know that Southern New Jersey is home to a special habitat called the Pine Barrens? The Pine Barrens are so named because of the sandy soil. European settlers found it was … [Read more...]
Community Matters: Animal Projects and Community Service
Every 4-H club is expected to conduct community service projects, though sometimes the logistics of integrating volunteerism into animal science projects may feel daunting. How can 4-H members in animal project areas feel that they are contributing to their communities? Public libraries, senior centers or living facilities, daycares, and religious institutions often make … [Read more...]