News & Updates Archives - Kissimmee Valley Feed

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Come Rain or Shine: Altosid IGR Field Study

Thursday, May 15th, 2025

Purina's Wind and Rain with Altosid IGR Come Rain or Shine: Altosid IGR Field Study – Much like the weather, fly populations can be a bit unpredictable during certain times of year. That’s often been the case with horn flies on pasture cattle. Populations have been known to rise after heavy rainfall events. This has created some mild concerns as producers question whether their feed-through fly control products are working effectively. To learn more, Purina sent a team into the field to see the effect heavy rainfall has on Altosid IGR.

After conducting a study on various regions throughout the country, their team of experts came back with the same conclusion: heavy rainfall events can lead to a brief spike in horn fly numbers among cattle being treated with Altosid IGR. Yet all fly populations in the study returned to their normal levels of control within 1-2 weeks.

This information alone can be comforting. However, we wanted to provide treatment tips to help producers plan for and address these population spikes. Following these recommendations can work as an insurance against rising fly populations after heavy rainfall events.

Fly Control Tips:

Monitor your local weather forecast to better predict when to begin treatments for each season.
If you are already feeding Altosid IGR and notice fly populations exceeding the economic threshold following a rainfall event, knockdown adult fly populations with a spray such as Prolate/Lintox HD^™ Insecticidal Spray and Backrubber from Starbar^® Products.
Continue feeding Altosid IGR! The product is still working to provide effective horn fly control, and should limit populations to their expected levels within a few weeks of the rain.
Remember to feed Altosid IGR all the way through the season and 30 days after the last frost. This helps producers account for the unpredictability of the seasons and help limit the overwintering flies that will jumpstart the population the following spring.

Altosid IGR delivers effective horn fly control that producers have relied upon for nearly 50 years. While heavy rainfall may produce a brief uptick in horn fly numbers, producers that weather the storm and continue feeding Altosid IGR can help keep their cattle healthy and profitable all season long.

We offer Purina’s Wind & Rain Storm Fly Minerals, which are designed to reduce fly populations. Check out Kissimmee Feed’s Cattle Supplies here. Flies cause significant discomfort for cattle. As part of an integrated fly control program, Purina’s Wind and Rain with Altosid (MTH), helps restore cattle comfort while reducing factors that cause poor performance, and decreased grazing time. 225 lbs.

Article Source: Central Life Sciences.

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Summer Flock Care: How to Keep Chickens Cool

Thursday, May 15th, 2025

Summer Flock Care: How to Keep Chickens Cool! Summer is a time for fun, adventure and excitement – for both backyard chicken raisers and their flocks. To keep birds cool in the summertime, provide fresh, cool water for hydration, maintain chicken coop ventilation and choose a layer feed with the Purina^® Oyster Strong^® System to help your hens lay strong and stay strong.

As humans, our habits change in the summer. We adapt to stay comfortable. By providing our backyard chickens the tools they need, they can also adapt and enjoy the sunshine. The summertime essentials are similar for both humans and backyard flocks: stay hydrated, protect yourself from the heat and maintain a complete and balanced diet.

Many people don’t realize that birds are unable to sweat. To cool down, they open their beaks and pant or spread their wings away from their bodies. If these cooling strategies are not enough, birds are more likely to become lethargic and may stop eating feed, which can lead to subsequent health challenges and reduced egg production.

We want to avoid these signs of heat stress by preventing problems before they begin. With the right care, birds will maintain their routines of foraging, pecking and chattering throughout the day.

Hydration is key: Provide the right chicken waterer

Staying hydrated in the summer is a clear choice for humans. As temperatures rise, a good rule for people to follow is to calculate half your body weight in pounds and drink the equivalent number of ounces of water.

For our backyard chickens, the practice should be similar: Clean, cool water is essential. Follow the general rule of providing 500 milliliters of fresh water per bird per day. This equates to one gallon for every seven adult birds.

Drinking water helps cool a chicken’s body temperature. In high temperatures, chickens will drink up to twice as much water as during temperate conditions. If birds do not have quality water, they are less likely to eat or lay eggs.

Here’s how to keep chickens cool through hydration:

Provide extra waterers so each bird always has access.
Place waterers in a shaded area to help keep the water cool and the coop dry.
Offer fresh, cool water in the morning and evening.
Freeze water in a storage container. Place the resulting ice in the chicken waterer in the morning to keep the water cool.
Place marbles in waterers to prevent splashing.
Wash waterers weekly with a mixture of 10 percent bleach and 90 percent water. Rinse thoroughly.

Chicken body temperature: Keep it in check

Think of your most recent day in the sun. You likely incorporated a few cooling practices to maintain an adequate body temperature and avoid heat stress.

A consistent body temperature is equally important for backyard flocks. Normal chicken body temperature is between 105 – 107 degrees Fahrenheit. If a bird’s body temperature climbs, it can cause a lasting strain. Create a cool and comfortable environment for your flock to enjoy.

Use these tips for keeping chickens cool and comfortable in warm weather:

Provide shade by placing roofs on the run or shade cloths over the door. Add misters outside of the chicken coop that spray onto the roof or shade cover for evaporative cooling.
Create adequate air flow to maintain chicken coop ventilation. Open all windows and roof vents to allow hot air and ammonia to escape. Add a small fan for air circulation.
Swap solid chicken coop doors with screen doors and keep lights off during the day. Reduce bedding to two inches or less to avoid heat being trapped.
Provide a peat moss dust bath for your backyard chickens to play in. If mites are a concern, switch to a mix of 90 percent peat moss, 10 percent diatomaceous earth.
Avoid overcrowding by providing at least 4 square feet of indoor space and 5 – 10 square feet of outdoor space per bird.

What to feed chickens in the summer

It can be argued that fresh-from-the-garden fruits and vegetables, summertime snacks and potluck picnics are true summer highlights. But, no matter the treat, it’s important to maintain a balance.

Summer is perfect for spending time in the backyard with your flock and giving them a few indulgent snacks, but don’t forget the 90/10 rule: 90 percent complete feed and 10 percent healthy treats or snacks!

Choose a layer feed with the Purina^® Oyster Strong^® System to help your hens lay strong and stay strong. Which layer feed Oyster Strong^® System is right for your flock?

Purina^® Layena^® pellets or crumbles Our most popular layer feeds
Layena^® Omega-3 Includes added omega-3 fatty acids for your health
Purina^® Layena^® Free Range Includes insect protein
Purina^® Organic Layer Feed Certified USDA Organic

To help keep your flock’s diet in balance:

Give fresh complete chicken feed in the morning and evening in a shaded area, offering treats only after the flock has finished its complete feed.
Offer cold or frozen fruits and vegetables as a summertime treat.
Provide special treats such as Purina^® Flock Block^® or hen treats as a complement to a complete feed. Treats formulated specifically for birds can provide beneficial nutrients while keeping birds active.
Offer oyster shell to help maintain calcium intake and eggshell quality when birds may be eating less due to heat.
Provide at least six inches of feeder space per bird.

Summer heat tends to reduce feed intake, so the complete chicken feed should be the first dietary priority. When birds have a balanced diet, plenty of water and a cool, comfortable environment, they are better able to remain healthy and productive and enjoy a fun and peaceful backyard summer.

In conclusion, visit Kissimmee Valley Feed for poultry care!

Resources:

Patrick Biggs, Ph.D. for Purina Mills

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Got Ticks? Chickens Might be the Best Way to Get Rid of Ticks

Monday, May 5th, 2025

Got Ticks? Chickens Might be the Best Way to Get Rid of Ticks! Ticks are dangerous little arachnids. They can carry over a dozen different diseases such as Powassan virus, Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

In Florida, ticks are most active throughout Spring and Summer.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recently released that in the United States illnesses caused by mosquitos, ticks, and fleas have tripled since 2004. If someone has symptoms such as fever, a sore neck, tiredness, headaches, bull’s eye looking rashes, nausea, or any kind of aches all over their body, it could possibly be tick-related. Lyme Disease can cause other serious issues like heart problems, joint pain, and nervous system degeneration over time.

Tick Prevention:

There are many ways to fight these nuisances. Common ways to keep ticks at a distance is by keeping your grass short, spraying for bugs, and reducing leaf litter. Tactics such as these, however, can get expensive, tiresome, and often times they don’t work. One of the best ways to get rid of an arachnid problem is to produce a predator: chickens.

Chickens don’t only eat vegetation, in fact, they are omnivores. A scientific study in 1991 tested the effect they had on tick reduction in a controlled environment. The results showed that not only were they a natural predator of ticks, but also that they removed an average of 81 ticks each among infested cattle. Chickens protected farm animals from arachnid sourced diseases in this case, which means they can also help households by protecting pets and family members from ticks.

Although chickens won’t eliminate the tick problem entirely, they can keep it controlled. Another predator besides chickens are guinea hens. They are omnivores and can help with insect, arachnid, and small pest problems. Unlike chickens, however, guinea do have a tendency to be loud. If the noise can be tolerated, these little hens can help keep disease away from your home.

Kissimmee Valley Feed has all your chicken and guinea needs covered. Check out our poultry feed selection here.

Resource: Texas Hill Country

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Gardening

Monday, May 5th, 2025

Ultimate Guide to Summer Gardening: With the warmth of summer on the horizon, it’s time to prepare your garden for the vibrant season ahead. Transitioning your garden to handle the hot summer months is an essential task for every gardener. This shift not only involves adapting your garden to the changing weather but also ensuring that your plants thrive during the summer months. Here’s our comprehensive guide to help you seamlessly transition your garden and make the most out of the summer bloom.

1. Assessment and Tidying Up

The first step in transitioning your garden is to assess the current state of your plants and garden space. Spring, with its unpredictable weather, can leave some plants in need of care. Remove any dead or diseased foliage and weeds that have taken advantage of the spring growth spurt. This cleanup will reduce competition for nutrients and light, essential for your plants’ growth in summer.

2. Soil Care

Summer brings its own set of challenges for soil health, including potential dryness and nutrient depletion. It’s crucial to prepare your soil for these conditions. Begin by testing your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels; this will guide you on what amendments your garden might need. Incorporating organic matter like compost can improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient content, creating an ideal environment for plant roots during the hot months.

3. Watering Wisely

Watering practices need to be adjusted as temperatures rise. Early morning is the best time to water your garden, as it allows moisture to reach the roots before the heat of the day causes evaporation. Consider installing a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses for efficient watering. Mulching around plants can also help retain soil moisture and reduce water loss.

4. Choosing the Right Plants

Not all plants thrive in the heat of summer, so it’s important to select the right varieties for your garden. Opt for heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plants that can withstand the summer conditions. Some popular choices include zinnias, marigolds, petunias, and sunflowers for flowers, and tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash for vegetables. You can also always ask your local feed store (like us!) for suggestions.

5. Pest and Disease Management

Summer can bring about an increase in pests and diseases. Monitor your garden regularly for signs of trouble and take action promptly. Using organic pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or applying neem oil, can effectively manage pests without harming your garden’s ecosystem.

6. Fertilizing for Summer Growth

Your plants will need extra nutrients to sustain growth throughout the summer. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide a steady supply of essential nutrients. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers and fruits.

7. Pruning and Deadheading

Pruning and deadheading are essential practices to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming in flowering plants. Pruning can also help shape your plants and improve air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases common in the humid summer months.

8. Providing Shade and Support

Some plants may need protection from the intense summer sun. Utilize shade cloths or plant taller crops strategically to provide natural shade to more sensitive plants. Additionally, ensure that tall plants and climbers have the necessary support, such as stakes or trellises, to withstand summer storms and winds.

9. Enjoying Your Garden

Amidst all the care and maintenance, don’t forget to take time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Set up a comfortable seating area in your garden to relax and admire the beauty you’ve cultivated. Summer evenings in the garden can offer a delightful retreat from the day’s heat.

Transitioning your garden from spring to summer requires attention to detail and a bit of preparation, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By following these steps, you can ensure that your garden remains a vibrant, flourishing oasis throughout the summer months. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these tips will help you create a summer garden that brings joy and color to your outdoor space.

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Springtime Weight Gain in Horses

Sunday, April 20th, 2025

Springtime Weight Gain in Horses: Winter can be hard on horses. When spring arrives, it is not unusual to find that a horse has dropped weight during the coldest months. When the mercury drops, a horse requires more energy to maintain body temperature. Winter is especially challenging for senior horses and young horses, who have a harder time maintaining body temperature. A sound nutrition program and suitable exercise can help remedy loss of condition as winter turns to spring.

Cold increases energy needs:

Horses have an estimated lower critical temperature (LCT) between 30-50○ F (-17-10○ C), depending on general body condition and thickness of haircoat. If the temperature falls below the LCT, a horse needs to burn energy to keep warm. For every 10○ F (5.5○ C) the temperature drops below LCT, a horse needs an estimated additional 2,000 kilocalories (kcal) to maintain body temperature. Often, this can be achieved with an extra 3 lb (1.4 kg) of hay.

“Hay is the best option for helping a horse create its own warmth,” said Kathleen Crandell, Ph.D., a nutritionist for Kentucky Equine Research. “Hay is fermented in a part of the hindgut called the cecum. Because internal heat is a byproduct of fermentation, consuming and processing hay keeps a horse warm.”

However, when rain and wind become factors, increases in energy needs can quickly escalate beyond what can be satisfied by hay alone, Crandell explained. In this case, concentrates and fat supplements are valuable in supplying calories. In regard to fat supplements, for example, one-half cup (4 oz or 120 ml) of vegetable oil provides approximately 2,000 kcal.

Body condition as a tool for weight management:

Assessing body condition year-round is the best management tool to identify changes in weight. The most familiar body condition scoring system features a scale from 1 to 9 that gauges fat cover and distribution. A score of 1 or 2 denotes an emaciated horse (veterinary intervention may be necessary), 3 or 4 is thin, 5 or 6 is ideal, and 7, 8, or 9 is overweight or obese.

Keeping track of weight, as well as body condition, is also important. A weight tape, placed around the horse’s barrel, directly behind the shoulders as the horse stands square, is an excellent tool for estimating weight and monitoring change. Measuring is important, as horse owners often notice changes in a measurement before noticing weight fluctuations visually. Weigh at a regular time every four to six weeks. For example, the first day of every month or each time the horse is visited by the farrier. Keep a log to track weight, pinpoint fluctuations, and adjust the diet accordingly.

If a horse is thin after winter, it is important to ask why. Is it related to a health problem (teeth, soundness, pain)? Is the horse stressed in some way (evolving herd dynamics, limited feeding stations)? Have your veterinarian conduct a wellness exam at least once per year. Take stock of the horse’s environment and behavior. What changed, if anything?

Concocting diets for weight gain:

Simply put, to gain weight a horse needs to consume more calories than it burns. Weight gain should be slow and controlled. Avoid rapid weight gain. Forage alone may not have enough calories for significant weight gain. Concentrates and fat supplements can help in these situations. To achieve an increase of one body condition score (e.g., from a 3 to 4), the average 1,100-lb (500-kg) adult horse needs to gain 44-50 lb (20-23 kg). That gain can take 30-60 days. Be patient. The amount of increased feed in the diet will depend on the individual horse, overall health, and activity level. Slowly make changes and increases in feed intake. Offering several small meals of grain is preferable to one or two larger meals.

Do not underestimate the caloric value of pasture. “Horses on pasture may benefit from the increase in calories with the improved quality of the spring grasses,” noted Crandell. “Fresh spring grass is high in digestible fiber, from which the horse can derive lots of energy.”

Forage should make up no less than 50% of the horse’s diet and ideally more (70-100%, depending on the horse’s needs). For horses with dental concerns that may not be able to chew hay properly, forage substitutes like soaked hay cubes, chopped forage, and soaked beet pulp often work well.

A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet is recommended for horses with metabolic concerns. For example, horses with Cushing’s syndrome or metabolic syndrome, that also need to gain weight. Limit pasture grazing with a grazing muzzle or drylot turnout. Hay can be soaked to reduce dietary carbohydrates as well. “A combination of soaked hay, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate concentrate, and a fat supplement, if added calories are needed, often suits these horses well,” Crandell recommended.

Resources:

In conclusion, do you have questions about Springtime Weight Gain in Horses? Visit us at Kissimmee Valley Feed and check out our horse feeds!

Article Sources: Kentucky Equine Research

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