“Oh the fun of arriving at a house and feeling the spark that tells you that you are going to have a good time.”
– Mark Hampton

Week 1 ensure all animals continue to have warm, dry shelters and access to unfrozen water. Increase feed and hay rations to help them generate body heat. Regularly check and repair fences and barns to prevent drafts. Groom your pets and livestock to maintain healthy coats and look out for signs of illness. Clean stalls and coops frequently to prevent moisture build-up and respiratory issues. Use this week to make any adjustments to routines that are needed to continue to keep your animals safe and comfortable throughout the rest of winter.
Dogs
Week 1 as the cold season sets in, provide extra warmth with cozy blankets or a heated bed. Protect their paws from ice and salt by using pet-safe booties or paw balm. Maintain regular grooming to prevent matting and dry skin, which can be aggravated by the cold. Keep your dog active and engaged with indoor play and puzzle toys. Regularly check for any signs of discomfort or health issues. This week, focus on creating a warm, safe environment and bonding time with your furry friend.
- Heart worm 1/1/2025
- Heart worm 2/1/2025
Horses
Week 1 continue to ensure they have a warm, dry shelter to protect them from the cold. Increase hay intake to help them generate body heat and maintain weight. Check their water supply frequently to ensure it’s not frozen. Regularly inspect and maintain their hooves, as icy and wet conditions can cause problems. Groom your horse to prevent skin issues and help their coat insulate them better. Provide gentle exercise and mental stimulation to keep them active and engaged. Focus on creating a safe and comfortable environment for your horse.
- Fluid Flex
- Farrier last half January.
- Worm 3/1/2025
Goats
Week 1 continue to ensure they have a warm, dry shelter to protect them from the cold and wet weather. Increase their hay intake to help them generate body heat and maintain energy levels. Provide plenty of clean, unfrozen water to keep them hydrated. Regularly check their hooves to prevent issues from wet and muddy conditions. Keep their living area clean and dry to avoid respiratory problems. Spend quality time with your goat, offering enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.
- Replace bedding and diatomaceous earth house
- Worm 3/1/2025
Chickens & Poultry
Week 1 continue to provide a well-insulated and draft-free coop to keep them warm. Add extra bedding like straw or wood shavings for added insulation and comfort. Ensure a consistent supply of clean, unfrozen water and increase their feed to help them maintain energy levels in the cold. Check for signs of frostbite on combs and wattles, applying petroleum jelly if necessary. Keep the coop clean to prevent moisture build-up and respiratory issues. Spend time with your birds to ensure they stay active and engaged.
- Replace bedding and diatomaceous earth nest boxes
Hobby Farm Upkeep
Week 1 we can conduct thorough inspections of fences and barns for any necessary repairs. Regularly clean stalls and coops to prevent moisture build-up and bacteria. Keep an eye on equipment, ensuring it’s in good working order, and prepare for any winter-specific needs like snow removal.
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