Category: Farm Life

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Farmer’s First-Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for addressing minor injuries and emergencies on your hobby farm. Here’s a list of items to include in a first aid kit for your animals:

Link to Amazon for the complete list

  1. Temperature Monitoring:
  2. Antiseptics:
  3. Wound care:
  4. Bandages and wraps:
  5. Tweezers or forceps:
    • Variety for removing foreign objects like splinters or ticks
  6. Hemostats or needle-nose pliers:
    • Variety pack for clamping bleeding vessels or removing large foreign objects
  7. Syringes and dosing equipment:
  8. Gloves:
  9. Eye wash or saline solution:
    • For flushing debris or irritants from the eyes
  10. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications:
  11. Emergency Heat:
    • Emergency Blanket or retaining body heat in injured or hypothermic animals
    • Hairdryer – warms cold kids and lambs up (always use low setting)
  12. Towels or rags:
  13. Flashlight or headlamp:
  14. Pen and paper:
    • For recording vital signs or other important information
  15. Emergency contact information:
    • The phone number and address of your veterinarian, as well as the nearest emergency animal clinic
  16. Container or storage bag:
    • A waterproof, durable container or bag to store all your first aid supplies
    • If you live in a cold climate be sure to have a heated/insulated area to prevent freezing
      • Tip, Use a cooler and a heat tape to make a barn friendly first aid cabinet.

This list should cover most basic first aid needs for your animals. However, it’s essential to tailor your first aid kit to the specific animals on your farm, as different species may have unique requirements. Additionally, consider taking a basic animal first aid course to learn how to handle emergencies properly and consult with your veterinarian for guidance on medications and dosages.

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10 Mistakes New Hobby Farmer’s Make

https://youtu.be/mu4iAIyDfSk

You’ve decided to venture into the world of farming, have you? Well, let me tell you, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows out here in the fields. In fact, there are plenty of mistakes that you’re bound to make. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through.

  1. Overcommitting: You may be dreaming of owning a farm with a thousand cows, but slow down there, cowboy! Start with a few animals and crops and work your way up. Otherwise, you’ll end up with more manure than you can handle.
  2. Not planning for the long term: Planning is essential for a successful hobby farm. Don’t forget that the weather can be unpredictable, and those cute baby animals will grow up into big adults. So, make sure you have a solid plan and don’t forget to factor in the unexpected.
  3. Not seeking out advice: Who needs advice from experienced farmers when you have YouTube tutorials, am I right? Well, let me tell you, watching videos and reading articles can only get you so far. Seek out advice from experts and other farmers to avoid costly mistakes.
  4. Ignoring local regulations: Yes, we know, regulations can be a real buzzkill, but they exist for a reason. Don’t be the farmer who gets hit with a hefty fine for breaking zoning laws.
  5. Neglecting record-keeping: Don’t be a disorganized farmer. Keep track of your expenses, income, and inventory. You don’t want to end up with a barn full of produce that you can’t sell because you didn’t keep track of what you had.
  6. Underestimating the workload: Yes, farming can be hard work, but it’s not all doom and gloom. Just be prepared for early mornings, late nights, and a whole lot of mud. But, hey, at least you’ll be getting a great workout, right?
  7. Not investing in proper infrastructure: Your animals need a safe and comfortable place to live, and your crops need to be protected from pests and the elements. Don’t skimp on the infrastructure, or you’ll be dealing with angry cows and rotting crops.
  8. Not being realistic about profits: We hate to burst your bubble, but hobby farming isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time, effort, and careful planning to make a profit. So, don’t quit your day job just yet.
  9. Failing to prioritize animal welfare: Remember, happy animals make for a happy farm. Neglecting the welfare of your animals is not only cruel but can also lead to legal troubles. So, make sure your animals are well-fed, comfortable, and healthy.
  10. Not taking the necessary safety precautions: You may think farming is all sunshine and rainbows, but it can be dangerous if proper safety precautions aren’t taken. Trust us, wearing gloves and protective gear is a lot less painful than losing a finger or two.

Hobby farming can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not for the faint of heart. So, take our advice, learn from the mistakes of others, and don’t forget to have a sense of humor. Happy farming!

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“First-Time Goat Owners: Guide to Goat Ownership 101, Including Tips to Overcome Challenges and Ensure Your Goat’s Health and Happiness”

https://youtu.be/uXB06GoWEOQ

Thinking of getting a goat? It’s a great idea! They’re like dogs, but with horns and a bad attitude. As a first-time goat owner, you’ll experience all sorts of challenges, but don’t worry, goats are pretty forgiving as long as you have snacks.

First up, fencing. If you don’t want your goat to go on a wild adventure without you, make sure your fence is sturdier than a sumo wrestler in a windstorm. Goats are known for their Houdini-like skills, and if your fence isn’t strong enough, they’ll be off on an adventure like they’re Indiana Jones searching for the holy grail.

This Electric Netting Works great on our farm!

 

Feeding your goat is like playing Goldilocks, but with hay instead of porridge. Give them too little, and they’ll be hangrier than a bear in hibernation. Give them too much, and they’ll be more bloated than a Kardashian after Thanksgiving dinner. Find that sweet spot, and you’ll have a goat that’s as happy as a kid in a candy store.

Minerals we feed our herd.

 

But, like all living creatures, goats can get sick. Don’t be surprised if your goat starts acting like a teenager with a cold. They’ll be moody, snotty, and won’t want to do anything except binge-watch Netflix. Take them to the vet, give them some medicine, and they’ll be back to being their goofy selves in no time.

Socialization is important for goats, too. They’re social creatures and need friends to hang out with. But, be warned, introducing a new goat to the group can be like introducing a new cast member to the Real Housewives. Drama is guaranteed, but with a little patience and some goat therapy, they’ll learn to coexist (mostly).

Lastly, behavioral problems. Goats are like toddlers with horns. They’ll chew on anything they can get their teeth on, like your favorite pair of shoes or your garden hose. They’ll also refuse to do anything you tell them to, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to get them to come inside for dinner. But, don’t worry, with a little bit of training and a lot of treats, you can turn your goat from a terror to a treasure.

Owning a goat can be an adventure. They’re funny, cute, and they’ll keep you on your toes. As long as you have snacks, a sturdy fence, and a good sense of humor, you and your goat will have a long and happy life together.

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Dosage Calculators for Dewormers

Disclaimer: The information available in this document is intended for entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitution for consulting a veterinarian or obtaining veterinary advice, diagnoses and/or treatment.

ALWAYS do a Fecal Test and FAMACHA Score prior to choosing a de-wormer

All of the below dewormers are to be given orally and of the “drench” variety not pour on.

Sheep Dewormer

s

Safeguard | Ivermectin | Cydectin | Valbazen | Prohibit

Goat Dewormer

s

Safeguard | Ivermectin | Cydectin | Valbazen | Prohibit

Alpaca Dewormer

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Safeguard | Ivermectin | Cydectin | Valbazen | Prohibit

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Grow Hybrid Willow from Tree Cuttings

Welcome to the wonderful world of hybrid willow tree propagation! Have you ever wanted to grow your very own willow tree, but didn’t know where to start? Well, you’re in luck! Hybrid willow trees are a popular choice for gardens and landscapes because of their fast grown and edibility for livestock. In this article, we’ll be taking you on a journey to learn how to successfully propagate your own hybrid willow tree through cuttings. So grab your pruning shears, your rooting hormone, and your green thumb, because it’s time to get started!

1yr old Hybrid willow cuttings

Let’s Gather Our Supplies!

  • Willow tree branch: First things first, we need to find a healthy branch from an existing hybrid willow tree. Look for a branch that is firm, flexible, and at least 6 inches long.
  • Pruning shears or a sharp knife: These will come in handy when we make the cut on our branch. Make sure your tool is sharp so you can make a clean cut with ease.
  • Rooting hormone: This is a magical powder that will help encourage root growth on our cutting. It’s like giving your cutting a little extra pep in its step!
  • Containers: You’ll need a home for your cutting, and a container with drainage holes will do the trick. You can use anything from a small pot to a gallon-sized container – the choice is yours!
  • Potting soil: This will provide the perfect environment for our cutting to grow roots and sprout new growth. Choose a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Now that we have all of our supplies ready, we’re one step closer to growing our very own hybrid willow tree!

Let’s Get Our Hands Dirty: A Step-by-Step Guide

  • Selecting a Branch:
    • deal Branch Characteristics: Look for a branch that is healthy, firm, and at least 6 inches long. A branch that has new growth at the tip is ideal.
    • Time of Year to Cut: The best time to take cuttings from a hybrid willow tree is in the late winter or early spring when the tree is still dormant.
  • Cutting the Branch:
    • Proper Cutting Technique: Use your pruning shears or sharp knife to make a clean cut just below a node (where leaves attach to the stem). Cut at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for rooting.
    • Treatment with Rooting Hormone: Dip the cut end of the branch into rooting hormone powder, then tap off any excess.
  • Planting the Cutting:
    • Choosing the Right Container: Fill your container with potting soil and make a hole in the center big enough to accommodate the cutting.
    • Filling the Container with Potting Soil: Make sure the soil is well-moistened before planting.
    • Placing the Cutting in the Soil: Insert the treated end of the cutting into the hole in the soil and gently firm the soil around it.
  • Aftercare:
    • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil regularly and water as needed.
    • Light Exposure: Place the container in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can cause the cutting to wilt.
    • Monitoring for Growth: Check the cutting regularly for new growth and roots. Once roots have formed, you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot or in the ground.

With these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to growing a thriving hybrid willow tree from a cutting! Just remember to give it plenty of love and care, and before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful new addition to your garden or landscape.

What To Do When Things Don’t Go According to Plan: A Guide to Troubleshooting

  • Wilting Willow Woes: If your cutting starts to droop and look a little sad, it’s probably because it’s thirsty! Make sure to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. You don’t want your cutting to drown, after all.
  • Slow Growth Struggles: If your cutting isn’t showing any signs of new growth or roots, don’t lose hope just yet! Some cuttings can be slow to root, so be patient and keep giving it TLC.
  • Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for any pests or diseases that might be affecting your cutting. If you notice any issues, remove any affected leaves and treat promptly.
  • Drought Dilemma: If you live in a dry area, make sure to water your cutting regularly to keep the soil from drying out. The last thing you want is for your cutting to get a case of the dry heaves!

Don’t worry if things don’t go according to plan, it happens to the best of us! Just remember to stay positive, be patient, and give your cutting plenty of love and care. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing a beautiful and thriving hybrid willow tree from a cutting!

Same Willow Cuttings 4 years later and over 20 ft tall.

And there you have it, folks! With these simple steps and a little bit of TLC, you’ll be well on your way to growing your very own hybrid willow tree from a cutting. Just remember to keep it watered, provide plenty of light, and keep an eye out for any pests or diseases that might pop up. And most importantly, don’t take yourself too seriously! Gardening is supposed to be a fun and relaxing hobby, so don’t stress if things don’t go according to plan. Just enjoy the journey and watch your cutting grow and flourish. Happy planting, everyone!