Is Your Livestock Operation Prepared To Weather the Winter?
The new year is when winter hits its stride and that means your sheep, goat and cattle business needs to keep up with the demands that the harsh weather conditions can have on your livestock. So how might you better prepare your animals for inclement weather and conditions?
Machinery: Sometimes the power can go out, so make sure you have the fuel you need to keep your vehicles, machinery, and generators running, including any maintenance work so your equipment will run smoothly.
Livestock Feed: It’s important to have the hay and feed your livestock need but especially during the winter season. You’ll need to store their feed and hay in a properly enclosed place to avoid damaging them with mold. Provide feeders best suited to your animals and keep hay feeders covered to avoid snow and rain damage.
Hydration: Water is essential for your livestock, even though the cold weather might cause them to drink less. You’ll need to make sure the water is liquid and not turning into ice, preventing hydration. If you are using a tank heater or de-icer, don’t use extension cords and check to make sure your equipment is working correctly.
Housing: Providing your animals with proper shelter when shed, trees or large brush are not enough protection is important to ensure their health. If they are inside, they will need proper ventilation to help them stay healthy. For smaller animals, heat lamps can make all the difference. Bedding needs routine changing so they avoid respiratory illness from ammonia buildup. Protect them from frostbite and freezing, using shelter and windbreaks.
At D-S Livestock Equipment located in Frostburg, MD, we are pleased to offer our customers a wide variety of livestock handling products for sheep, goats, and cattle, including the following:
- Feeders
- Show equipment
- Open bar or solid panels and doors
- Loading and hauling equipment
- Livestock handling equipment
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping livestock businesses gain access to our high-quality products cost-effectively. Thanks to our large inventory, we can turn around and ship your equipment promptly so you have what you need when you need it. We welcome you to give us a call at 800-949-9997 to learn more or to order a catalog.
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Planning for Winter: Livestock