Is pasture enough for horses in the summer?
Understanding nutrition gaps, Grazing management & Supplement needs 

For many horse owners across Atlantic Canada, summer means lush green fields, longer grazing hours, and horses spending more time outdoors. It’s easy to assume that a horse surrounded by green grass is receiving all the nutrition they need. 

While quality pasture can be an excellent source of forage, energy, and fiber, it doesn’t always provide a complete nutritional package. Factors such as weather, grazing pressure, soil health, and seasonal changes can significantly impact the nutritional value of pasture throughout the summer. 

Whether you own a retired pasture companion, a growing youngster, a senior horse, or an active performance horse, understanding the strengths and limitations of pasture is an important part of managing your horse’s health. 

 The benefits of summer pasture
Healthy pasture offer several advantages for horses: 

In ideal conditions, pasture can contribute to a significant portion of a horse’s daily nutritional needs. However, “green” doesn’t always mean “nutritionally complete.” 

 

Why pasture quality changes throughout the summer
Your Pasture is constantly changing. What your horse grazes in May can be very different from what they consume in July or August. Several factors influence pasture quality: 

Overgrazing: One of the most common pasture management challenges is overgrazing.
When horses repeatedly graze the same area, grass plants are unable to recover properly. Over time, desirable forage species decline, weeds become more prevalent, and overall forage production decreases.
Overgrazed pastures often look green from a distance but provide significantly less nutrition than healthy, actively growing grass. 

Weather and drought stress: Atlantic Canada’s weather can vary dramatically throughout the summer. Extended dry periods slow grass growth and reduce forage availability. Even when grass remains present, drought-stressed plants often contain lower nutritional value than actively growing pasture. 

Seasonal changes: As grasses mature, their nutritional profile changes. Early-season pasture tends to be higher in digestible energy and protein, while mature summer pasture often contains more fiber and fewer readily available nutrients. 

Soil health and nutrient levels: The nutritional value of pasture starts with the soil. Pastures that haven’t been soil tested or properly managed may lack important nutrients needed to support healthy forage growth. This can ultimately affect the nutritional quality of the grass available to horses. 

 

The importance of pasture rotation
One of the best ways to improve pasture quality is through rotational grazing. Pasture rotation involves dividing fields into smaller sections and moving horses periodically to allow the grazed areas time to recover. 

Benefits of rotational grazing include: 

Allowing grass to have adequate recovery time helps maintain a healthier pasture throughout the growing season and can significantly extend grazing availability. 

Even small hobby farms can benefit from simple rotation systems using temporary fencing to create separate grazing areas. 

 

How to support your horse on pasture
The best feeding programs start with regular observation and evaluation.
Monitor your horse’s: 

 

Depending on your horse’s needs, nutritional support may include: 

Every horse and pasture system is different, making an individualized approach important. 

 

Pasture is one of the most valuable tools available to horse owners, but it isn’t always a complete feeding program on its own. 

Changes in weather, grazing pressure, soil health, and seasonal growth can all impact the nutritional value of your pasture throughout the summer. By practicing good pasture management, utilizing rotational grazing, and monitoring your horse’s condition regularly, you can help ensure they receive the nutrition they need. 

If you’re unsure whether your horse’s pasture is meeting their nutritional requirements, visit your local Feeds’n Needs store. Our knowledgeable team can help you select the right feeds, supplements, minerals, and forage solutions to support your horse’s health all summer long. 

 

How much water should a horse drink in the summer?
Signs of dehydration, hydration tips & daily water needs 

Summer in Atlantic Canada means longer days, warmer temperatures, trail rides, horse shows, and more time spent outdoors. While most horse owners focus on feed, pasture quality, and fly control during the warmer months, one of the most important aspects of summer horse care is often the simplest: water. 

Hydration plays a critical role in your horse’s overall health, performance, digestion, and recovery. Understanding how much your horse should drink—and recognizing when they’re not getting enough—can help prevent serious health concerns during the hottest months of the year. 

Why water intake matters more in summer
Water is the most important nutrient in your horse’s diet. During summer, horses lose significant amounts of fluid through sweating as they regulate their body temperature.
Several factors can increase a horse’s risk of dehydration, including: 

Even mild dehydration can impact digestion, recovery, and performance. More severe dehydration can contribute to the impact of colic, heat stress, and electrolyte imbalances. 

 

How much water should a horse drink?
A typical horse will drink between 20 and 60 liters of water per day, depending on their size, workload, diet, and environmental conditions.
As a general guideline: 

The key is knowing what is normal for your horse and monitoring changes. 

 

Factors that increase water requirements: 

Hot weather: As temperatures rise, horses sweat more to cool themselves. Increased sweating means increased fluid loss that must be replaced.
Humidity: Atlantic Canadian summers often bring high humidity. Humid conditions make it harder for sweat to evaporate, causing horses to sweat longer and lose more fluids.
Exercise and performance: Whether you’re competing on the show circuit, trail riding, or training regularly, exercise significantly increases water requirements. Performance horses can lose several liters of fluid during a single workout.
Dry hay diets: Hay contains very little moisture compared to fresh pasture. Horses consuming mostly hay must make up the difference through increased water intake.
Travel: Many horses drink less while traveling because water tastes different at new locations or because the stress of transport reduces their desire to drink.
Senior horses: Older horses may be less efficient at regulating body temperature and can be more susceptible to dehydration during heat waves. 

Dehydration; What to look for in your horse
Dehydration can develop quickly during warm weather. Watch for these common warning signs: 

If you suspect significant dehydration, contact your veterinarian immediately. 

 

Tips to encourage water intake 

Clean and fresh: Horses are surprisingly picky about water quality. Scrub buckets, troughs, and automatic waterers regularly encourage drinking.
Offer multiple options: Providing several water stations in fields, paddocks, and barns can encourage horses to drink more frequently.
Soaking feed: Adding water to beet pulp, hay cubes, pellets, or senior feeds can significantly increase daily water consumption.
Bring water from home: Many horses dislike unfamiliar water. Bringing water from home to horse shows or events can help maintain normal drinking habits.
Provide shade: Shade helps reduce heat stress and encourages horses to spend more time near water sources.
Electrolytes: Horses that sweat heavily may benefit from electrolyte supplementation to help replace minerals lost through sweat and encourage drinking. Always follow feeding directions and ensure fresh water is available. 

 Product support products here at Feeds’n Needs
Several products can help support hydration during the summer months, including: 

 

Our team can help you choose the right hydration strategy based on your horse’s age, workload, and lifestyle.  

 

Summer feed tips for show horses
Keeping nutrition performance on track during the show season. 

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for horse owners across Atlantic Canada. From local schooling shows and gymkhanas to provincial hunter-jumper, dressage, western circuits, horses are travelling more, working harder, and facing additional stressors that can impact their health and performance. 

While training and conditioning are important, nutrition plays a major role in helping horses maintain energy, hydration, recovery, and overall condition throughout the season. 

At Feeds’n Needs, we understand the demands of Atlantic Canada’s equine community and the challenges that come with hauling, competing, and keeping horses performing at their best all summer long. 

Summer challenges for show horses
Competition season introduces several factors that can affect a horse’s nutritional needs, including:

 

Feeding priorities during the show season
Keeping feed consistent: Avoid making major feed changes during competition season whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent feeding program helps support digestive health and reduces unnecessary stress.
Prioritize forage: High-quality forage should remain the foundation of every show horse’s diet. Consistent access to hay supports digestive function, hydration, and steady energy levels, especially when travelling.
Focus on hydration: Proper hydration is essential for muscle function, temperature regulation, recovery, and performance. Even mild dehydration can affect stamina and recovery time.
Monitor body condition: Competition schedules can make it easy to overlook gradual changes in weight or muscle condition. Regularly evaluate your horse’s topline, body condition, coat quality, and overall appearance throughout the season.
Nutritional support: Depending on your horse’s workload and individual needs, several products may help support performance and recovery during the summer months:
Electrolytes: Electrolytes help replace minerals lost through sweat and support hydration during training, competition, and travel.
Vitamin and mineral support: A balanced vitamin and mineral program helps support overall health, muscle function, and performance throughout the season.
Hydration support products: Hydration-focused supplements can help encourage drinking and support fluid balance during periods of increased work.
Easy-to-feed support: Products such as beet pulp and other digestible fibre sources can provide additional calories while helping support hydration and digestive health. 

 

Successful show seasons aren’t built on performance alone—they start with preparation.

At Feeds’n Needs, we work with equestrians across Atlantic Canada and understand the unique demands of our summer show season. From hydration support and electrolytes to feeds, supplements, and forage solutions, our team can help you build a nutrition program that fits your horse’s needs. 

 

Winter Wellness for Dogs: The Right Foods for the Season

Winter has arrived, and while we’re cozy under blankets and sipping warm drinks, our dogs feel the chill too. Winter isn’t just about keeping them warm, it’s about giving them the right nutrition to stay healthy and energetic all season long.

If you’re a pet parent wondering how to support your dog during colder months, here’s what you need to know.

Why Winter Nutrition Matters

Cold weather means your dog uses more energy to stay warm. Without proper nutrition, they can experience fatigue, a dull coat, or lowered immunity. A balanced diet tailored for winter helps keep them strong, active, and happy.

Essential Food Categories for Winter Wellness

  1. Protein-Packed Meals
    Protein is the foundation of your dog’s health. It supports muscle strength and energy—especially important when temperatures drop. Look for high-quality kibble or wet food featuring real meat like chicken, fish, or lamb.

Tip: Check labels for “high-protein” formulas to meet seasonal energy needs.

  1. Healthy Fats for Warmth
    Fats provide concentrated energy and help maintain a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are key for skin health and warmth. Fish oil or flaxseed are great additions, and many premium foods include these naturally.

Pro Tip: Balance is important, too much fat can lead to weight gain.

  1. Fibre for Digestive Health
    Seasonal changes can affect digestion. Fibre from carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes keeps your dog’s gut healthy and helps them feel full. Many complete diets include fibre-rich ingredients for convenience.
  2. Vitamins & Minerals for Immunity
    Winter can challenge your dog’s immune system. Nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc help fight seasonal stress. Choose foods fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to keep their defences strong.
  3. Hydration-Friendly Options
    Dogs often drink less water in winter. Wet food or pet-safe broths can help maintain hydration. Serving warm broth over kibble is a comforting way to boost fluid intake.

Extra Tips for Winter Care

  • Adjust Portions: If your dog is less active, reduce food slightly to avoid weight gain.
  • Serve Warm Meals: A little warmth makes mealtime more inviting.
  • Keep Them Cozy: Blankets, coats, and indoor play keep your dog comfortable and happy.

The Bottom Line

Winter doesn’t have to slow your dog down. By focusing on protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and hydration, you’ll help them thrive through the season. Explore Feeds’n Needs’ selection of premium pet foods and winter care essentials—because a healthy dog is a happy dog.

Happy dog licking their lips
Happy dog licking their lips

The Benefits Of A Raw Food Diet For Dogs & Cats

If your pet could write their own grocery list, there’s a good chance “more raw food, please!” would be at the top. Raw diets have been getting tons of love lately and for good reason! From better nutrition to allergy‑friendly options, there are plenty of benefits packed into every bowl. And when it comes to choosing a trustworthy raw brand, Big Country Raw is a standout star.

  • Made in Canada, With Love (and Great Ingredients)
    Big Country Raw is a Canadian, family‑owned company based in Ontario, proudly using Canadian‑sourced ingredients in all their recipes, except their imported kangaroo protein (which would be tricky to find in the wilds of Ontario). Their commitment to local sourcing means fresher ingredients and higher quality in every bite. Plus, with a certified pet nutritionist on staff, they ensure every recipe is expertly balanced to support your pet’s health from bowl to tail.
  • Safety You Can Trust
    Big Country Raw is HACCP certified, an internationally recognized food safety standard that ensures strict control over biological, chemical, and physical hazards. It’s the same level of oversight used in human food production, giving pet parents peace of mind.
  • Allergy‑Friendly Options & So Much Variety
    Got an itchy dog? A picky eater? A pet with mysterious tummy troubles? With nine different proteins and a wide range of natural supplements, Big Country Raw makes it easy to tailor meals to your pet’s needs. Dogs with allergies or health concerns often thrive on raw because it’s minimally processed and rich in clean, species‑appropriate ingredients.
  • Nutrients That Actually Get Absorbed
    The magic of raw food is how naturally digestible it is. Without heavy processing, pets can absorb nutrients more effectively leading to shinier coats, better digestion, and a whole lot more tail wagging.
  • Cats Need Taurine, Raw Has Plenty
    Fun fact: cats can’t produce their own taurine, an essential nutrient for heart health, vision, and overall wellbeing. Big Country Raw’s cat formulas naturally contain high taurine levels, giving your feline friend exactly what they need.
  • Backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
    Trying raw for the first time? No stress! Big Country Raw backs all food and supplements with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making raw feeding easier and more approachable for everyone.

Raw feeding doesn’t have to be complicated—and with high-quality brands like Big Country Raw, it’s easier than ever. Better ingredients, better nutrition, and better results… your pet just might thank you with extra cuddles.

If you have any questions about a raw food diet for your pet, the knowledgeable staff at Feeds’n Needs are happy to help!

More info on raw food diets: Raw Master Class

Winter Wellness for Dogs: The Right Foods for the Season

Winter has arrived, and while we’re cozy under blankets and sipping warm drinks, our dogs feel the chill too. Winter isn’t just about keeping them warm, it’s about giving them the right nutrition to stay healthy and energetic all season long.

If you’re a pet parent wondering how to support your dog during colder months, here’s what you need to know.

Why Winter Nutrition Matters

Cold weather means your dog uses more energy to stay warm. Without proper nutrition, they can experience fatigue, a dull coat, or lowered immunity. A balanced diet tailored for winter helps keep them strong, active, and happy.

Essential Food Categories for Winter Wellness

  1. Protein-Packed Meals
    Protein is the foundation of your dog’s health. It supports muscle strength and energy—especially important when temperatures drop. Look for high-quality kibble or wet food featuring real meat like chicken, fish, or lamb.

Tip: Check labels for “high-protein” formulas to meet seasonal energy needs.

  1. Healthy Fats for Warmth
    Fats provide concentrated energy and help maintain a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are key for skin health and warmth. Fish oil or flaxseed are great additions, and many premium foods include these naturally.

Pro Tip: Balance is important, too much fat can lead to weight gain.

  1. Fibre for Digestive Health
    Seasonal changes can affect digestion. Fibre from carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes keeps your dog’s gut healthy and helps them feel full. Many complete diets include fibre-rich ingredients for convenience.
  2. Vitamins & Minerals for Immunity
    Winter can challenge your dog’s immune system. Nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc help fight seasonal stress. Choose foods fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to keep their defences strong.
  3. Hydration-Friendly Options
    Dogs often drink less water in winter. Wet food or pet-safe broths can help maintain hydration. Serving warm broth over kibble is a comforting way to boost fluid intake.

Extra Tips for Winter Care

  • Adjust Portions: If your dog is less active, reduce food slightly to avoid weight gain.
  • Serve Warm Meals: A little warmth makes mealtime more inviting.
  • Keep Them Cozy: Blankets, coats, and indoor play keep your dog comfortable and happy.

The Bottom Line

Winter doesn’t have to slow your dog down. By focusing on protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and hydration, you’ll help them thrive through the season. Explore Feeds’n Needs’ selection of premium pet foods and winter care essentials—because a healthy dog is a happy dog.

Prevent Cabin Fever in Pets During Long Winters

Short daylight, icy sidewalks, and stormy stretches can reduce outdoor time. Enrichment keeps pets mentally engaged, reduces anxiety, and prevents boredom behaviors (chewing, vocalizing, scratching).

Dogs: Indoor Activities

  • Puzzle Feeders: Slow feeding, boost problem-solving.
  • Scent Games: Hide treats in boxes or towels and let them “hunt.”
  • Training Bursts: 10-minute sessions to learn new cues and tricks.
  • Indoor Agility: Use cones, chairs, and blanket tunnels for obstacle fun.
  • Tug & Fetch: In hallways or basements and mind slippery floors.

Cats: Indoor Activities

  • Vertical Spaces: Add shelves or cat trees for climbing.
  • Hunt & Pounce: Wand toys, laser pointers (end with a real catch like treats).
  • Foraging Feeders: Scatter kibble in snuffle mats or puzzle toys.
  • Window Watching: Place bird-friendly feeders outside windows for safe viewing.

Routine & Environment

  • Maintain a consistent routine: meals, play, rest.
  • Use cozy beds away from drafts.
  • Add background nature sounds for calming ambience.

Maritime-Friendly Tips

  • After storm closures, plan micro-walks when sidewalks are cleared.
  • Choose grippy booties for dogs to prevent slips.
  • Keep salt off paws: wipe after outdoor exposure; use pet-safe de-icers.

Explore puzzle toys, snuffle mats, interactive feeders, booties, and pet-safe de-icers at Feeds’n Needs – your local partner for winter pet wellness.

How to Prevent Frostbite in Chickens

Cold weather can be tough on backyard flocks, and frostbite is one of the most common winter challenges for chicken owners. Understanding what frostbite is, how to recognize it, and how to prevent it can make all the difference in keeping your birds healthy and comfortable.

What Is Frostbite in Chickens?

Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, typically affecting a chicken’s comb, wattles, and sometimes feet. Because these areas have small surface areas, frostbite can set in quickly—especially during extreme cold or wind chills. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.

Signs of Frostbite

Watch for these symptoms:

  • Early Stage: Combs and wattles turn gray; feet may appear dark red.
  • Advanced Stage: Swelling in large combs and wattles, blackened tissue, or necrotic areas. Severe frostbite often cannot be reversed.

Chickens are good at hiding discomfort, so knowing their normal behavior helps you spot problems early.

What to Do If Frostbite Occurs

If you notice frostbite:

  • Warm Slowly: Use a warm, damp cloth on combs and wattles for 15–20 minutes. For feet, a shallow lukewarm bath works well. Avoid rapid warming or rubbing the tissue.
  • Isolate & Monitor: Place the bird in a warm, draft-free area with deep bedding. Apply a hydrogel spray  to promote healing.
  • Watch for Infection: Severe cases may involve blisters or tissue loss—contact a vet if needed.

What Temperature Puts Chickens at Risk?

When temps drop below 32°F (0°C)—especially with wind chill—frostbite becomes a real threat. Roosters and breeds with large combs are most vulnerable. Daily checks and proper shelter are essential.

7 Tips to Prevent Frostbite

  1. Apply a Protective Salve: Use coconut oil or bag balm on combs and wattles (avoid Vaseline in extreme cold—it can freeze).
  2. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Good airflow prevents moisture buildup, reducing frostbite risk.
  3. Provide Electrolytes & Vitamins: These can help birds cope with cold stress.
  4. Create Ample Roosting Space: Chickens huddle for warmth—make sure everyone has room.
  5. Avoid Open Water Bowls: Use nipple waterers to prevent wet feathers and feet.
  6. Keep Bedding Dry: Damp bedding increases frostbite risk. Use deep litter and refresh often.
  7. Add a Safe Heat Source: In extreme cold, consider a heating panel or caged lamp (avoid fire hazards).

Can Chickens Recover From Frostbite?

Recovery takes time—often 4–6 weeks. Dead tissue will slough off naturally, leaving healthy tissue behind. The biggest risk is infection, so monitor closely and consult a vet if needed.

Conclusion

With proper care—dry bedding, good ventilation, and a few preventive measures—you can keep your flock safe and healthy all winter long. Here’s to happy hens and a frostbite-free season!

Winter Care for Goats

Ensuring the well-being of your goats is a top priority as winter weather approaches. Cold temperatures and harsh conditions bring unique challenges that can impact your goats’ health and comfort. By covering the basics—shelter, water, and nutrition—you can help your herd thrive all season long.

Shelter: Protection from the Elements

Goats don’t need elaborate housing, but they do require protection from wind, snow, and rain. At a minimum, provide a three-sided shelter that blocks cold north winds while still allowing ventilation. In barns, consider using a door flap to keep wind and snow out while letting goats move freely. To maintain comfort and insulation, keep plenty of clean, dry straw or shavings available for bedding.

Ventilation Matters:
Avoid sealing the barn too tightly. While drafts should be minimized, airflow is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to pneumonia and other respiratory issues. Proper ventilation reduces humidity and keeps your goats healthy.

Keep It Dry

Moisture is the enemy in winter.

  • Location: Avoid low-lying areas where water collects.
  • Maintenance: Regularly refresh bedding and keep loafing areas dry to prevent hoof problems like rot or scald, and udder issues such as mastitis.

Do Goats Need Heat?

Surprisingly, goats do not need supplemental heat in most cases. Heat lamps and jackets can interfere with their natural ability to acclimate. As temperatures drop, goats grow a thick winter coat for insulation.
Tip: If snow sits on their coat without melting, their insulation is working!

Typically only newborn kids or a sick goat require extra warmth—use heat lamps with extreme caution due to fire risk and cord chewing.

Water: Fresh and Unfrozen

Goats need constant access to fresh water, even more so in winter when hay replaces moisture-rich pasture. Without water, goats eat less and lose body condition. To prevent freezing, use heated water bowls or change water frequently.

Nutrition: Fuel for Warmth

Winter feeding isn’t just about calories—it’s about heat production.

  • Hay is Key: Offer free-choice hay 24/7. Goats are ruminants, and the fermentation process in their rumen generates internal heat.
  • Extra Energy: Consider adding alfalfa for protein and energy, but use caution with bucks and wethers to avoid urinary calculi.
  • Minerals: Provide salt and mineral supplements year-round.

Helping Goats Adjust

Gradual acclimation is important. Keep goats outdoors as long as possible in fall so they develop thick coats before moving to winter housing. Goats generally handle snow well if they have dry shelter and clear paths to water and feeders. Plowed snow can even serve as a windbreak.

How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Staying hydrated is just as important for cats as it is for us. Water supports digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and overall health. Unlike what many people believe, milk or cream is not a good substitute—most cats are actually lactose intolerant, and dairy can leave them with an upset stomach. That’s why fresh, clean water should always be their number one source of hydration.

If you’ve noticed your cat isn’t drinking much, don’t worry—many felines are naturally picky about water. Here are some ways to encourage them to drink more:

  1. Fresh Water Daily

Cats can be finicky about their water quality. Make it a habit to change and refull their bowl daily so it’s always fresh and clean.

  1. Offer Multiple Water Stations

Placing several bowls around the house ensures your cat never has to wader far to get a drink. This is especially helpful in multi-level homes.

  1. Choose the Right Bowl

Some cats dislike the taste or smell that comes from plastic or metal. Glass or ceramic bowls are usually a safer bet. Wide, shallow bowls are ideal—they help keep whiskers from getting squished and allow cats to feel secure while drinking. You can find a wide variety of water bowls at your local Feeds’n Needs.

  1. Try a Water Fountain

Running water naturally attracts cats (hence the fascination with faucets). A pet water fountain keeps water circulating and fresh, which can encourage reluctant drinkers. You can find pet water fountains at your local Feeds’n Needs.

  1. Keep Water Away from the Litter Box

Cats instinctively avoid drinking near where they go to the bathroom—it’s a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. Place bowls in a different room to make the water source more inviting.

  1. Separate Food and Water

Many cats also prefer to keep their eating and drinking spots apart. Position their water bowl in a different area than their food dish to  mimic their natural instincts.

  1. Add Moisture with Wet Food

Canned or pouch food contains up to 80% water, making it an easy way to boost hydration. If your cat currently eats mostly dry kibble, introducing wet food gradually can help balance their water intake.

  1. Make Water More Tempting

A splash of tuna water (from tuna in water, not oil) or a little unsalted chicken broth can make plain water more appealing. Be cautious about added salt or seasonings.

Conclusion

Cats are often subtle about their needs, but ensuring proper hydration can make a huge difference in their health and comfort. By offering fresh water, experimenting with different bowls or fountains, and even adjusting their diet, you can help your feline friend stay happy, healthy, and hydrated.