Members of Forbes Business Development Council share seven strategies for doing a better job of empathizing with customers. Their assertions are good. Still, it is important to avoid the words, “I understand,” as if you know the customers’ feelings. Remaining respectful, acknowledging and aligning with where the customer is in the decision process is critical. Stating what … [Read more...]
Adolescent brain development is misunderstood
Our recent post, How working parents can feel less overwhelmed and in control captured excellent readership. In that spirit, we offer this look at the growing appreciation of adolescence as a time of rapid growth, learning and change. “A decade of research studying adolescence makes clear to me the importance of clarifying the truth about this crucial stage of human … [Read more...]
Before running a photo contest
Many veterinary hospitals and retailers promote pet photography. Some of these photos are used in files and some end up on bulletin boards or social media. Jeff Wignall offers tips on taking adorable pet photos in this article. Pet owners will appreciate getting these, along with a photo contest announcement via social media, websites and newsletters. Source: BottomLine Inc, … [Read more...]
Ex-racehorses are not for beginners (includes video)
Just for fun! Nick Bull’s video of his runaway experience with an ex-racehorse underscores the reality that thoroughbreds retired from racing may not make the best horse for a novice rider. Source: Horse Network, March 2017. Retired racehorses are not for everyone. While thoroughbreds are some of the most willing and loyal partners on the planet, at the core they are … [Read more...]
Lack of sleep can make you sick
Researchers believe that improving sleep habits could help reverse conditions influenced by disrupted sleep schedules, such as insomnia. The article shares the top six damaging side effects caused by lack of sleep: Sleep disorder Low vitamin D Weight gain High triglycerides High cholesterol Source: University Health News, January 17, 2018. Our circadian … [Read more...]
Time for some fresh air
A new study joins a growing body of research linking indoor pollution to negative impacts on cognition, mood and worker productivity. This is not new. The recognition of the negative impact of poor indoor air quality dates back to the 18th century. Indeed, Benjamin Franklin once stated, “I am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as the air within a closed … [Read more...]
Impaction colic is common and treatable
Equine gastrointestinal distress, colic, has several causes. Impaction colic is one of the more common types and is treatable when caught early. An impaction occurs when a large amount of firm, dry fecal material has built up within the intestine. This mass is then unable to change size as it passes through the varying widths of the digestive system. Impactions occur most often … [Read more...]
How working parents can feel less overwhelmed and in control
Working parents are frequently haunted by the nagging sense of not getting enough done, of failing in some way, of giving things that really matter too little attention and, of course, feeling as if the wheels may come off the bus very, very soon. The problem isn’t in your organizational system or work ethic, it’s in how human brains are wired. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, … [Read more...]
Baxter Black on farriers (video)
There are a lot of skilled people cowboy poet Baxter Black admires. He’s fairly skilled in some areas (he is a veterinarian and rancher), but he lacks in others. One talent that always alluded him was horseshoeing skills. Source: Drovers, January 15, 2018. In addition to veterinarian, rancher and poet, Baxter Black is an agricultural entertainer. For over 25 years he has … [Read more...]
Consistent evidence still needed on bugs
Microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that are administered to prevent or treat disease are known as probiotics. A very lucrative industry emerged to produce and sell these particular organisms. However, despite well-established basic science showing the importance of the microbial flora to health, it is not a simple matter to produce safe and effective probiotic … [Read more...]
AQHA’s 2017 highlights
2017 was filled with incredible moments for our industry, according to AQHA Executive Vice President Craig Huffhines. The American Quarter Horse Association is the world’s largest equine breed registry and membership organization. Its headquarters are in Amarillo, Texas. Source: AQHA Daily, January 8, 2018. The summary of activities and events shows an active membership and … [Read more...]
Horse body clipping basics are important
Though it’s often an essential part of good horse management, clipping can be a daunting task. The authors offer questions and tips to help horse owners when clipping is required. Consider this article for a social media post or as information when educating horse owners and horse enthusiast groups. Source: Horse Network, October 2017. Topics cover: considerations … [Read more...]
Good stuff in OSU’s Equine News
The January issue of Oklahoma State University’s Equine News has some great information about getting horses in good shape, controlling environmental challenges and managing Equine influenza virus. Source: Oklahoma State University, January 2018. If your horse hasn’t had much activity in a while, it is a good idea to take a baseline assessment. First, does your horse need … [Read more...]
Insulin resistance and cold weather laminitis in horses
Eleanor Kellon, VMD, says cold-induced hoof pain strikes horses with insulin resistance (IR). IR is a well described risk factor for laminitis. Even when a horse is not glaringly lame it is causing damage to the laminae. We haven’t uncovered all the mechanisms behind laminar damage from high insulin levels but one known factor is elevated levels of endothelin-1. Source: … [Read more...]
These are horses, not teddy bears
Thomas Gumbrecht shares a story of horse care, animal temperament and a momentary lapse of judgement that resulted in getting kicked by an old friend. It is a good reminder to be present around horses or any animal. Source: Horse Network, January 3, 2018. As she passed, I noticed something on her underside and instinctively reached out to touch it. I forgot for a moment … [Read more...]
Stop Googling; call the equine DVM (includes video)
It can be a challenge for horse owners to know when to handle a problem themselves or when to call in the veterinarian. Natalie Voss provides symptoms and situations arranged as red flag emergencies, orange flag potentially important and yellow flag cautionary potential for a health issue. The article also includes a link to a video featuring Emily Dean, DVM who discusses “when … [Read more...]
Cabin fever affects horses, too
Natural horsemanship reminds me to look at every situation as if I were a horse, shares Tim Hayes. He relates how cabin fever can affect both horse and rider. Spending 20 or 30 minutes, three to five times a week connecting with our horses is mentally and emotionally meaningful to him. Source: Horse Network, December 2017. If I can’t ride, I can still visit, says Hays. I … [Read more...]
Zoonotic knowledge poor in MDs and population
Sixty percent of all diseases are zoonotic as are 75 percent of emerging diseases. Sarah Wooten, DVM, shares the metrics surrounding the human medical profession and population related to understanding the risks from animal-human contact. Share this article routinely with local doctors and on websites, social media posts and newsletters. Be sure your own staff is familiar with … [Read more...]
Test your equine dental knowledge
Test your knowledge of horses’ teeth. Consider sharing the quiz in posts, emails and newsletters. Source: AQHA, December 14, 2017. Horses have a unique dental structure. According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, horses' teeth are divided into two major sections: the incisors, which are the teeth seen in the front of the horse's mouth, and the cheek … [Read more...]
Extreme weather requires preparation
Caring for horses often presents challenges when rain, drought or snow dominate the headlines. The Equus team discusses ways to prepare for abnormal extremes. This is good content for social media posts, websites and to use in training sessions with horse owners. Source: Equus, November 2014. For horse people, the weather is a constantly changing variable that has a direct … [Read more...]
Humane Society helping pet, livestock owners during wildfires
As wildfires continue to rage in Southern California, pets, horses and livestock are part of the survivors and casualties. The Humane Society of Ventura County in Ojai has been working 24/7 for more than a week to rescue animals and help owners drop off their pets and horses. No animal is turned away. Source: CBSlocal.com, December 13, 2017. In many cases owners of horses … [Read more...]
Anticipating foal coat color
December is part of the last trimester for some mares. With gestation being 11 months long, owners anxiously await the prize of a new foal. Not much can be predicted overall, but coat color is one attribute where educated guesses are possible. For basic colors, such as sorrel or chestnut, bay, palomino or black, it’s fairly simple. Check the Color-Cross Chart to find the color … [Read more...]
Horse coughing may indicate trouble
Sometimes coughing in horses is harmless. It may be the first sign of serious trouble. Heather Smith Thomas reviews how to tell the difference. Notice the background information about the horse’s activities. These references will help veterinary staff members ask good questions when receiving a call from a horse owner. Source: Equus, October 5, 2017. Knowing when to call … [Read more...]
Colder weather makes horses stiff
Cold, damp weather causes increased stiffness in both muscle and connective tissue, including tendons and ligaments in horses. Older animals experience the effects more profoundly. Eleanor Kellon, VMD, offers some supportive measures to offset the effects of cold. Source: Horse Network, December 5, 2017. Research has proven that exposure to cold causes increased stiffness … [Read more...]
AQHA; Winter horse care
Horses are built to weather winter with or without a barn if they are prepared for it. Constantly changing temperatures and frequent changes in wind velocity exacerbate the challenges of caring for them. This article shares perspectives for horse owners in South Dakota and covers barns, shelter, feed and of course, water. Some variations of these methods are applicable across … [Read more...]
The 10 different types of horse owners (includes video)
Just for fun, check out Maria Watcher’s review of different horse owners. Most animal health pros have met someone who fits these descriptions. The Know-it-All, Miss Horse Poor and Frugal Fred were most familiar to our AHD team. Source: Horse Network, December 2014. INSIGHTS: Sales reps can use the video to get a group loosened-up ahead of a presentation. … [Read more...]
Managing the skinny, older horse
Impending winter weather and loss of good pasture should make all owners of thin senior horses anxious. An underweight horse is a concern regardless of age, but seniors have additional considerations. Eleanor Kellon, VMD, shares perspectives on dentistry and nutrition. Source: Horse Network, November 23, 2017. Problems such as heart failure, kidney failure, liver disease or … [Read more...]
Help your clients value preventive healthcare with these free videos
Research shows that pet owners are willing to embrace preventive healthcare, but do not completely understand its importance. Partners for Healthy Pets is focused on preventive care. They offer a free, downloadable series of videos to help your team to make your communication with clients more effective and make sure everyone is involved in the conversation. Source: AAHA … [Read more...]
The reality of owning horses
Alyssa Knee offers a horse owner’s perspective of the ups, downs and real work of horse ownership. Her article provides good perspective for animal health pros who have never owned or worked with horses. Source: Horse Network, November 16, 2017. It’s a roller coaster of emotions, explains Knee. The kind that you get on willingly, but then realize you can never get off. It’s … [Read more...]
A no-nonsense guide to blanketing horses
A recent study indicates as many as 50 percent of equestrians don’t know enough about their horses’ physiological responses to environmental temperatures. This poses a risk to the horses’ welfare. Heather Malcolm offers her no-nonsense guide to blanketing or not blanketing a horse. This is great information to share with horse owners via websites, in holiday communications or … [Read more...]