Understanding Forage

Forage comes in many different forms. It can be principally divided into two categories: long stem and short stem. Long stem forage is most often in the form of hay, haylage or pasture. Most unprocessed plants are considered long-stem forage.

Short-stem forage generally takes the form of chaff or hay pellets. The hay is cut or otherwise processed to shorten the stems. This is done for convenience and ease of handling, as chopped or pelleted feed is easier to store and to feed. Short-stem forage can help to meet a horse's nutritional needs, but it does not provide the same digestive benefits that long-stem forage does. In addition, horses tend to eat it more quickly and a diet that relies too heavily on it may lead to stable vices such as wood chewing or cribbing, which the horse will turn to out of boredom.

Hay and Haylage

Hay is the most common form of forage other than pasture - it is grass or other plants that have been cut and dried. Hay can be made up of almost any long-stem crop, but the most popular varieties are grass, alfalfa, rye and oat.

Haylage is similar to hay. It is also made from long-stem plants that have been cut, however, while hay is left to dry in the field, crops intended for haylage are baled before they have completely dried. The plants are allowed to wilt, then are compressed into bales. These bales are then sealed into plastic bags, which preserves the haylage and prevents it from moulding.

Haylage and hay can both provide a horse's long-stem forage needs. However, each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Hay tends to be less expensive than haylage, but haylage may be easier to find. This is particularly true in wet climates, where it can be difficult to dry hay properly. Hay that is baled while still damp will mould, which can lead to respiratory problems in horses that consume it. It may also create a fire hazard as the organisms which grow in it produce heat, which can lead to spontaneous combustion. As a result, haylage may be a safer feed in wet climates.

The drying process used to create hay often leads to significant nutritional and caloric losses. While that may seem like a drawback at first, in fact it is a positive feature for many horses. The lower caloric value of hay makes it a better choice for owners who wish to provide their horses with ad-lib feed. It also often makes it a more appropriate feed for horses and ponies who are easy keepers or those who are prone to laminitis. Soaking hay for a minimum of half an hour reduces the calorie and nutritional content further, making it an ideal feed to give laminitics.

Haylage is often the preferred feed for horses with respiratory illnesses, as it is a very clean feed and generally does not contain any dust. Although hay must be soaked before feeding horses with respiratory illnesses, haylage can often be fed straight from the bag.

Chaff

Chaff is a form of chopped hay. It is usually made from high quality grasses that are dried under intense heat in order to kill any bacteria or fungus. The rapid drying process also preserves most of the nutrients in the grass, making it a denser feed than hay. Other ingredients are often added to chaff to make it more palatable. These may include molasses, mint and other herbs.

Chaff is often used to add bulk to a horse's concentrate ration. Some research has indicated that mixing chaff with concentrates such as grain can help prevent ulcers - this is because it encourages the horse to eat more slowly and chew more thoroughly. Equine ulcers form when the stomach becomes too acidic. Saliva is alkaline, so as it is swallowed with feed it helps raise the pH of the stomach.

Like most forms of forage, chaff can be found in many different varieties. The most popular are generally alfalfa, timothy and grass. Straw chaff can also be purchased in most places, and does have some value as a filler. However, it is important to note that straw contains few nutrients. As a result, it is falling out of favour as a horse feed.

Although chaff can be used to stretch hay or pasture in lean years, it is not generally recommended as the only form of forage in the diet. It can provide complete nutrition, but it is short-stem forage. The equine digestive system requires long-stem fibre to function properly.

Hay Cubes and Pellets

Another popular form of forage is the hay cube or pellet. Some horses may find pellets and cubes unpalatable due to their hardness, so they can be soaked before feeding. Pellets may be made with molasses or other additives to improve the taste.

Hay pellets and cubes are often a good choice for older horse who may have dental problems that make chewing difficult. Many owners soak a mixture of hay pellets and a veteran horse feed together to create a soft mush that is easy to eat. Pellets and cubes can also be used to add bulk to concentrates and to provide additional dust-free forage for horses with respiratory illnesses.

Pellets and cubes are not recommended as the only source of forage. They are short-stem fibre, so they will not meet a horse's digestive needs. In addition, they are typically consumed quickly which results in boredom and stable vices.

Guest post by +Tim Capper  

If you have just adopted a new puppy, congratulations on your new family addition! Start his or her growth and development off right by selecting only a food that is designated for puppies. Puppies grow very quickly, and expend a lot of energy as they play and explore, so their metabolism is in full swing to keep up with that energy level. Puppy foods are specifically formulated to satisfy the daily nutritional requirements of a growing puppy.

If the food you have chosen has a feeding guide on the packaging, be sure to feed within those guidelines. Overfeeding a growing dog can lead to excess weight on developing bones and joints, leading to permanent damage. Toy breed puppies must eat at every meal, as they are predisposed to hypoglycaemic episodes, or low blood sugar. Training rewards of a sugary supplement will help to prevent such occurrences. When your puppy reaches six to twelve months of age, you may begin to wean him or her onto an adult formulation. Begin this process closer to the six to eight month age for smaller breeds; wait until twelve months for large breeds.

Once a puppy is fully matured, a high metabolism is no longer needed to accommodate growth. Adult dog foods have fewer calories than puppy food; however even when it comes to adult foods, many dogs have special requirements. For the adult dog between the ages of one and seven years who happens to be in perfect health, he or she will do well on a regular adult dog food. When it comes to special needs, there are adult formulations available to target such concerns.

Some foods are formulated based on the size of your dog, for example small-sized kibble for toy breeds such as Chudleys Snippets. This type of kibble will be easier for your dog to chew their dry food more thoroughly, leading to better digestion and less opportunity to choke. These smaller kibble diets can also be easier on a dog that is suffering from dental disease and thus not able to chew his or her food as efficiently.

There are foods that are nutritionally aimed to maintaining large and giant breeds, such as Chudleys Chunks. Such breeds, including Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, German Shepherds and Great Danes, have a tendency to develop arthritic conditions in their joints earlier than their smaller breed counterparts. Many foods designed with the large dog in mind add supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, into the formula to nourish joint health. As your large breed dog gets older, your vet may recommend further additional supplementation with these nutraceuticals.

Adult dogs who become less active can easily put on excess weight very quickly, leading to obesity and predisposing them to a host of medical consequences later, such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. If your dog is appearing a bit pudgier lately, it is time to take control of his or her weight and opt for a weight-loss formula food. These foods are nutritionally complete and balanced, but have been formulated to contain less fat, opting for higher fibre content so that your dog will feel satiated. Use feeding guide provided on the package of weight-control food, and be sure to feed according to your pet’s target weight, not his or her present girth. Also remember that these recommendations are usually based on your dog’s daily requirement. If you feed your dog twice a day, divide the recommended amount in half for each feeding.

Many dogs suffer from gastrointestinal upsets due to either specific carbohydrate ingredients or protein-specific food allergies. So-named ‘sensitive stomach’ foods address these issues by substituting a ‘novel’ protein into the food, such as lamb, or by eliminating such ingredients as gluten or corn and substituting another grain such as brown rice. Some dogs suffer from skin allergies, for which there are specially formulated dog foods as well. It is important for dogs that suffer from these conditions to consume only the allergy diet that works for him or her. Any treats must fall within those limited ingredients as well in order for such a diet to work optimally. Dogs with sensitive stomachs can also benefit from smaller feedings more frequently rather than one or two large meals a day.

As your dog approaches their seventh birthday, it is time to consider switching the diet to a senior dog food. Older dogs become less and less active and their metabolism slows further. Senior dog foods contain fewer calories, the ingredients have been adjusted to maintain optimal organ function, and some ingredients have been added, such as glucosamine to aid in maintaining joint health.

Always remember to change your dog’s food through a slow and gradual weaning process, as any abrupt change in diet can lead to intestinal upset and diarrhoea. Over the course of a week, gradually introduce and increase the amount of the new food and decrease the amount of the old food. If your dog has performed well on one brand of food, it is best to stick with the brand when changing formulations whenever possible. When offering treats and rewards, stick with treats that are designed to be fully digested. 

Every dog is a unique individual, requiring his or her own set of nutritional requirements. Begin a feeding program that addresses your dog’s needs throughout his or her life and you will be rewarded with a thriving, happy and healthy companion for years to come.

Dog Food Brands: Chudleys & Autarky Dog Food

Dog food is just dog food, right? Does a dog really have such different needs during life stages that they require a completely different formula of dog food? 

In fact, they do! Many dogs benefit from being fed age specific diets rather than a "one size fits all" approach to mealtimes. While dogs are the direct ancestors of wolves, who live almost exclusively off a diet of meat from a very early age, domestic dog breeds have been bred for generations to have specialised purposes, features and energy requirements. The diet of a puppy, for example, is not going to benefit a senior dog and could actually be harmful to the older canine's health. 

The Importance of Age Appropriate Diets:

In the not so distant past, most dog owners simply fed their canine companions one type of dog food through their entire lives without ever thinking about the changing nutritional needs that every dog has during different stages of development and aging. 

Even the so-called "all-stages" dog foods cannot provide the dietary requirements for puppies, adults and seniors just as a hamburger would not necessarily be appropriate for a human infant, or a senior with special health considerations! In that regard, dogs are no different from humans. 

Fortunately, veterinarians, breeders and dog owners are all starting to understand more about the process of aging their canine friend goes through and how a dog's diet should be changed to reflect these nutritional needs.

Puppies:

It's no secret puppies spend most of their days playing or sleeping, and the rate at which some breeds grow is astounding. Not only are puppies exerting a great deal of physical energy in playing and growing, but their mental development is also rapidly changing at this stage in their life. Every day, a puppy is learning new things and experiencing situations that are completely new.

So how does all this impact a pup's nutritional needs? Why do puppies need a specially formulated dog food?

Puppies need food that is higher in protein, fat and certain nutrients and vitamins than adult or senior dogs do. This added boost of protein, vitamins and fat helps to compensate for the energy a growing puppy spends, both physically and mentally. A good quality puppy food is designed to help support development of muscles and muscle function, both internally and externally, to ensure that a puppy is getting the maximum benefit possible out of every piece of kibble at mealtimes. A pup on an age-appropriate diet will generally show more even growth, be more alert, and have fewer health problems than puppies that are fed food that has not been specifically developed for their age group. 

Puppies generally need to eat age appropriate food for the first year of their lives. This does vary slightly from breed to breed, so doing research and asking the advice of a vet is usually advisable. 

Adult Dogs:

Adult dogs have levelled off in their growth and are no longer using extra energy for developing bones and muscles. While many adult dogs are still very active, their physical development is complete and there is no longer a need for higher protein and fat content. In fact, continuing to feed puppy foods after a dog has reached adulthood may lead to obesity and other health problems, so it should be avoided at all cost.

Finding a breed appropriate dog food (or size appropriate, such as Medium, Large or Toy) is usually the best way to ensure an adult dog is getting exactly what they need in their diets. 

Diets for working dog breeds or large breeds have higher protein and nutrient content to help keep muscles healthy, reduce inflammation of joints, and may help support injury recovery more quickly than other adult dog foods. Likewise, dog foods for small breeds are specifically designed for those canines and are usually easier for a small dog to eat due to the smaller size of the kibble.

Senior Dogs:

Some senior dogs remain very active until late in life, while other breeds slow down early. It's very important for the dog owner to understand the changing dietary needs of the older dog and when this change in diet should be made. Some dogs are considered seniors as early as eight or nine years, while other breeds may be considered a senior dog at 12 years. 

As dogs get older, they usually have a decreased need for calories. With the reduced activity comes the chance of obesity in canines, and obesity in mature dogs can be especially detrimental to health and longevity. Senior dog foods are formulated with fewer calories, relatively high protein content to support organ function, and may also have added Omega-3 fatty acids and a lower sodium content to help keep the older dog healthy and alert. Some may even have added vitamins and antioxidants to help promote a healthy immune system.

Choosing a Good Dog Food For Each Life Stage:

Just as important as feeding a dog an age-formulated diet, choosing a high quality dog food can make a big difference in a canine's overall well being and development. Knowing an individual dog's specific needs, too, can make choosing a high quality food simpler. Some dogs may be allergic to grains such as corn or wheat, while others may simply have a taste preference and thrive off one particular flavour or brand.

When choosing a dog food, take care not to switch a pet's diet too quickly. Reading labels and comparing is also a good idea to make sure that, no matter the age of the dog, the nutritional content is complete and balanced. It's important to remember that dogs are carnivores, and while vegetables and grains can be a source of added nutrients, a good quality dog food will usually have a meat source, such as chicken or beef, as the first ingredient.

Recommended Brands: Autarky & Chudleys Dog Food

Here are some suggestions for what might be suitable feeds depending on your situation. Also included is a guide to how much feed the horse should be consuming, but weighing feed plays an essential role in not overfeeding. Always ensure there is fresh drinking water available with free access to forage. The forage bodyweight intake should be 1.5kg/100kg per day.

If your horse or pony is a competition horse, a racehorse, or a show horse, Build & Glow is ideal, especially for those who need to gain weight. This feed includes a beneficial blend of vegetable oils, essential fatty acids, lecithin and vitamin E. Divide your horse’s hard feed into at least two to three meals per day. 

Convalescent Diet is ideal for a horse on a period of box rest or a temporary layoff, on a horse walker or recovering from an operation. This feed is not only cost-effective but is low intake. There are no added oats, and it includes antioxidants with added magnesium. Feed 400g/100kg bodyweight per day, not to exceed 950g/100kg bodyweight per day in total. Divide this into at least two to three meals per day.

What if your horse is currently competing in other disciplines? Endurance Mix is formulated to support both performance and recovery in endurance horse, with a combination of slow and fast releasing energy sources vital to increasing racing speed. Essential ingredients include: chelated minerals; high levels of vitamin E; aromatic herbs; marigold and amp; herbs; electrolytes; vitamins; fibre and oil. Feed 600g/100kg bodyweight per day, not to exceed 1kg/100kg bodyweight per day in total. Again divide this into at least two to three meals per day.

If your horse/pony is in light to medium work, possesses feed intolerances or is prone to excitable behaviour, muscular disorders and/or digestive issues, Equine Sensitive is the ideal food since it is low in starch and high in oil, recommended by vets, and includes added yeast and biotin as well as antioxidants. Feed 300g/100kg bodyweight per day, not to exceed 1kg/100kg bodyweight per day in total. Divide this into at least two to three meals per days.

ERS Pellets contain very low levels of starch. This is the ultimate option for medium to hard-working horses and those that are prone to muscular disorders. This feed is very high in oil and also contains fibre, antioxidants, and vitamin E, with added calcium, magnesium and electrolytes. Feed 800g/100kg bodyweight per day, not to exceed 1.1kg/100kg bodyweight per day in total. Divide this into at least two to three meals per day. 

If your horse is in early race training or in full work, the R&R Diet and the R&R Cubes are specifically formulated for horses in need of a low-starch diet. These cubes are a good source of quality protein and contain a blend of highly digestible energy sources with added B vitamins. Feed 800g/100kg bodyweight per day. Divide this into at least two to three meals per day. In addition, ERS Pellets and Staypower Cubes reap the same benefits.

Your horse may be suffering from a stress reaction if he or she displays traits such as excitability, uneven temperament; poor performance, gastric ulcers, poor appetite and weight loss. Take Control can help manage these symptoms and provide a long-term solution. This feed includes: Actisaf yeast, bio-available magnesium, highly digestible ingredients, and Omega fatty acids, amp, and lecithin. Take Control should be introduced to your horse’s diet two to four weeks prior to a change in situation or event and fed 100g/100kg bodyweight. This feeding amount should replace the same weight of your normal concentrate feed.

Whether a pony or horse, racing or on rest, feed is essential - not only is nourishment a factor but so are mood swings, weight and energy levels. Determine what is best for your horses, and then give them the best.

Dodson & Horrell, Horse Feeds

Once the feeding station is set up, it may take a little time for the birds to discover the area and to start coming to it. To start out, put only a small amount of food into the feeders to keep it from spoiling before the birds are attracted to it, and then once the birds start coming to the feeders, more can be added to keep the feeders full. 

Wild bird seed mixtures are designed to feed the birds from a feeder or from the ground. The bird seed will provide nutritious food for a large assortment of garden birds. Some birds that might be seen feeding off these mixtures include Blackbirds, Goldfinches, Sparrows, Robins and many more. 

A standard wild bird seed mix may contain a variety of ingredients. Some seeds and grains included in a standard mix may be black sunflower, red millet and white millet, and the mixture could also have some peanuts, maize, oats, milo and wheat added to it. This variety can be added to a mesh feeder for the birds to enjoy.

Sunflower seeds will attract a variety of birds, and certain types of these seeds are easier for small birds such as Chickadees or Woodpeckers. Black-oil sunflower seeds will benefit the Chickadees and Woodpeckers during the winter months since the seeds are high in fat. Striped sunflower seeds are thicker and are better for birds such as the Cardinals. 

Millet is a hard seed coating that is less likely to rot. White millet is popular for Quail, Sparrows, Juncos and small-beaked birds, who like to feed from the ground or low areas. Corn also attracts a variety of birds that like to feed off the ground such as Pigeons, Ducks, Quail and other birds. Many mixtures can be found to feed a variety of birds from different feeding areas.

Another variety of bird seed mixture can be placed on the ground or in a tray to attract birds. The area should be visible to the birds as they fly by, and the area should be kept clean. Always keep plenty of water close to the food area so the birds can enjoy a bath or a drink of water when they stop by to sample the bird seed. This is known as a garden variety that has some of the same ingredients listed for the standard mix, but it also includes a few additional products such as canary seed and aniseed oil. The ingredients in this mixture make it a high-energy product. Since all the ingredients are edible, the birds tend to eat all the seeds with less going to waste.

Some people like to feed the birds on their patios, but they do not like to clean up the left over seeds that the birds did not eat. The garden-variety mixture would solve that problem since all the ingredients are edible. The birds will eat all the ingredients, which will mean less to clean up. The added aniseed will encourage the birds to feed off the mixture.

Birds will be fed more efficiently when someone chooses a wild bird seed mix that has ingredients that require no husks left over. The birds will flock to the seed to sample the mixture. Some of the birds that are attracted to wild bird seed mixtures include Blue Tits, Chaffinches, Bullfinches, Great Tits, Siskins, Song Thrushes, Dunnocks and Nuthatches.

A different type of wild bird seed includes peanut granules. A wild bird fledgling would not be able to swallow whole peanuts but the peanut granules would be easier for the birds to swallow as well as be a high-energy food source. The peanut granules can be mixed with other foods to make it more nutritious. To keep this food source fresh for longer, place only a small amount in the feeding area at a time. The peanut granules are good to use all year round in a mesh feeder, on the ground or from a table. 

If someone would like to have an abundance of garden or wild birds in his or her yard, then they can set up several feeding areas. It is a worthwhile hobby since it is protecting the birds from starvation, and it is giving someone the pleasure of watching one of the world's most beautiful creations. 

Dogs have been considered loyal and faithful friends of man for ages. They are not only good friends but also meticulous workers who never hesitate risking themselves to save their master’s life. Dogs were used as hunting partners, herders, cattle guards and surveillance personnel and much more in ancient times. However, until the early 20th century, most of their abilities were unrecognised by us. Their importance grew with passing time and they started substituting human capabilities in many other ways.

Working dogs in the modern world are not just pets but real assistants and helpers to humans in many aspects. These trustworthy guide dogs help in our daily lives in many forms. There are Therapy dogs, Services dogs, police dogs, military dogs, guide dogs for the blind, bomb-sniffing dogs, hearing dogs, mobility assistance dogs, psychiatric service dogs and more. Let us look into the details of how these modern assistants support us human beings...

Therapy Dogs 

Therapy dogs that are used to treat patients are trained under a professional dog trainer. These dogs become a part of therapy teams that visit homes for the elderly, children’s homes, assisted living centres, and hospitals where the patients and the disabled require assistance and support. These dogs sit by the side of patients, let them pat them, accompany them on walks and other tasks. Some dogs are trained to sit quietly near children while they read stories to them or speak to them. They inspire human beings by just doing nothing and remaining silent in many instances.

Therapy dogs are special dogs that are trained to possess certain traits. Before the training starts, they are checked for certain qualities such as non-aggressiveness, confidence, calmness, gentle behavior and amenable to training. Dogs that are sociable and crucially do well with people certainly qualify for such training programs.

Service Dogs

Service mindedness is an inbuilt quality of a certain breed of working dogs. They assist, rescue, guard and protect people at times of calamities and disasters. Assistance dogs help the disabled and handicapped; they act as their companions and help them in every task or daily routine. Other than Labradors and Golden Retrievers, Samoyed, rough coated and smooth coated Collies are a few well-known breeds of service dogs. During a landslide, ice storm or similar mishaps, rescue dogs help to sniff out survivors and dig them out of the debris. Two of the famous breeds of rescue dogs are Portuguese water dogs and Saint Bernards.

Instead of a bodyguard or a personal assistant, you can always rely upon a personal protection dog. They are not only devoted to their masters but also strong and smart. They can handle any situation in which you may be in harm in a very tactical manner, but require thorough training and exercises to become familiar with human activities. Breeds such as Dobermans, Schnauzers and Boxers qualify to be the best bodyguards of human beings. If you are in a secluded area, such as an estate or an isolated house in the woods, then you require someone strong and brave enough to guard you and your property - Anatolian Shepherds, Kuvasz, Bullmastiffs and Komondors are a few breeds that act as efficient estate guards. Their looks and appearance are enough to scare any trespasser.

Bomb Sniffing Dogs

It has only been in the past 50 years that dogs have been used in the law enforcement and security arena. Their unique quality of smelling and sensing things has made them the best candidates to fight terrorism and violence. Although there are many breeds that can be trained to detect bombs and help in anti-terrorist activities, German Shepherds are the most preferred dogs for this task; they can be trained easily for patrol jobs. Their aggressive behaviour and quick understanding are the two main qualities that make training them to be obedient on and off leash easy. German Shepherds are also quick to respond to commands and act according to the situation.

The way these sniffer dogs are trained is quite interesting. They are trained in three steps - smell a explosive material, alert by making signs and sounds and receive a reward for doing so. When the dog completes this exercise successfully 70 - 80 times, then the trainer is assured that the dog has learned what is expected out of him and he graduates. 

Hearing Dogs

People with disabilities require some kind of support and dogs fit the bill. Hearing dogs help the deaf by hearing for them and alerting them by using signs. These dogs are sensitive to sounds such as the doorbell, ringing of the telephone, smoke alarms, microwave ovens and more. They also keep their masters out of harms way in case of an emergency. They can pull their master’s wheelchair or pull their master by their clothing to get them to safety; they can bring them their medicines too. Hearing dogs are usually marked with orange collars and leashes.

Mobility Assistant Dogs

Those who are restricted to beds, use wheelchairs or cannot move without assistance benefit immensely from the help of mobility assistant service dogs. These dogs help their masters in performing basic tasks such as picking up dropped items, bringing things and getting help in case of an emergency. Some dogs are trained to help their master get in and out of his wheelchair. 

Seizure Alert Dogs

This breed of dog is trained to help a master who suffers from seizures or epilepsy. They are usually responsive and very aware of their master’s activities. They are trained to recognise the pre-signs and signals of a person who is about to have an epileptic seizure, make sure such individuals are in a safe place and offer medical assistance. These dogs sense that a seizure is imminent by smelling the chemical changes in their master’s body. When an individual is actually having a seizure, these dogs pin him to the ground or lie on him to keep him safe and restrained to avoid any injury. They also sit with the patient, nuzzle and rub him until they are sure that he is safe and calm.

Sled Dogs or Sleigh Dogs

In places where winter is severe and snow falls almost around the year, vehicles without wheels are used. Sled dogs pull such vehicles and help people move around in the snow. These dogs can withstand severe cold and they are patient and hard working all of which make them the perfect service dogs for such weather and activities. They cannot survive hot weather, as they do in cold climates. The Siberian husky and Alaskan malamute are the two most preferred sleigh dogs.

Psychiatric service dogs

Psychiatric service dogs are trained to assist patients with psychiatric disabilities. They help people with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, manic depression, agoraphobia and so on. In emergencies, these dogs fetch medicines and get help for their patients. They also try to calm them by encouraging the patients to pet and focus on them. They nuzzle and stay with patients in order to divert their attention, as well as checking on and trying to help patients who are having hallucinations and illusions by checking the house for intruders and suspicious activities. They do various things to keep patients from having feelings of paranoia. 

Military Dogs

Though strong soldiers brave enemies and dangers on the war front, military dogs are deployed worldwide to serve and help military personnel guard military bases, detect the activities of enemies and sense explosives and bombs on the battleground. Many of them even help injured soldiers on the war front. Military dogs have a strong sense of smell, 10-12 times stronger that that of humans, this helps them sense many types of imminent danger. Military dogs are well fed and although they are groomed thoroughly, their appearance alone is enough to scare off enemies. 

Other ways in which working dogs’ abilities come in handy include protecting children in the absence of their parents, smelling cancer cells in human beings, assisting police in tracing criminals and missing persons, and accompanying their masters in outdoor adventures, camping and sports.

Pets have been a source of entertainment and friendship for humans for years. They do not care about the appearance of their master or the regular mood swings they experience. A loyal dog can be a man’s best friend. Although they cannot speak, dogs understand and respond to our signs and sounds. They do not expect special treatment; they just want to be a part of the family and be treated like a family member. They remain loyal throughout their lives and remain dedicated to their family members even after their death. Working dogs in a modern world are not just a source of assistance for human beings; they are inspirational as well.

Feeding Working Dogs Dog Food

These dogs require a different type of food then a regular pet food brand you will find in the supermarket.  Working dogs have a higher requirement for nutrients in comparison with a pet dog and it is essential that your dog’s food provides adequate amounts of energy, protein and other nutritional essentials for a day’s work. Two exceptional brands are Chudleys for working dogs and Autarky dog food for regular feed.

1) Crufts 2012

Dog lovers from across the United Kingdom and the world descended on Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre, recently for Crufts 2012. Participating dogs – 21,000 in all – represented 182 breeds, each judged on agility, obedience and heelwork, among other categories. Each day of the show is set apart for a specific group to be evaluated: toy and utility, gun dog, working and pastoral, and terrier and hound. Events are not uniform across the groups, however. The relay retrieval sport of flyball, for example, is confined to the toy and working groups. Group winners were determined each day, with Best Dog in Show awarded on the final day – this year’s winner was a 7 year old Lhasa Apso named Elizabeth, who had already won Best of Breed and Best in Group on previous days of the four day contest.

While Crufts is one of the most exciting canine competitions in the UK, it also serves as a hub of education and inspiration for dog owners. Of the numerous exhibitions, the Friends for Life competition is perhaps the most encouraging. YouTube videos are submitted on behalf of canines that have exceeded the norms in bravery, support or companionship. The dogs are grouped by function: Service Dog, Assistance Dog, Police Dog, Companion Dog and Support Dog of a Paralympic Hopeful. Subsequent to submission, the videos are then voted on by the public.

The dog with the most compelling narrative receives the Friends for Life award on the last day of the show, and the deserving winner this year was a spaniel named Buster, who worked as a bomb detector in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan, completing 5 rounds of duty with the army in all and saving countless lives.

Comprehensive information on Crufts can be accessed at http://www.crufts.org.uk/

2) Gamekeepers’ Fair

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation holds the Gamekeepers’ Fair at Catton Park, Catton Estate, Walton-on-Trent, Derbyshire. Taking place 14 to 15 April, the BASC fair opens up many events for gundogs and their handlers. The primary match at the fair is the BASC Chudleys Scurry League Qualifier, putting long-distance retrieval abilities to the test. Success here allows participants access to up to 10 scurry events throughout the season. As with all of its gundog competitions, BASC places strict rules on dog and handler as far as time-keeping and line-crossings are concerned.

For information on the fair and related links, visit http://www.bascgamekeepersfair.co.uk/

3) Scottish Game Fair

For those who want more than dog competition, the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust holds its Scottish Game Fair from 29 June through to 1 July. Set at Scone Palace, Perthshire, events for gun dogs include scurry and other dummy retrieval tests based on breed and experience. Scurry runs all three days of the fair, with entries accepted on the first day. Participating working dogs can complete courses while retrieving one, two or three dummies within prescribed time limits. Working tests for spaniels, retrievers and handlers require an entry fee. Also open are paired events for one spaniel and one retriever per team. For young people under the age of 16, the fair offers a junior handlers test free of charge.

Check out http://www.scottishfair.com/ for fees and deadlines. 

4) CLA Game Fair

Later in July, from the 20th to the 22nd, is the CLA Game Fair at Belvoir Castle, Grantham, Leicestershire. Here, too, gun dog demonstrations are a staple, but hunting hounds are also very much on display. The fair will host rings and pavilions for sporting dogs, working dogs and terriers, each venue providing demonstrations and informative sessions for handlers. Popular at CLA is the pavilion for “lurchers,” canines that are cross-bred to maximize speed and nimbleness for the purpose of pest and varmint control.

Popular with attendees is the Have-A-Go section, which runs a full battery of competitive trials for dog, including scurries and Working Tests. The International Arena provides a forum for dog and handler teams from across Europe to contend against one another. For hunting enthusiasts, the Parade of Hounds and the Hound Exhibition provide ample exposure to the various breeds of hound.

The CLA Game Fair official site is http://www.gamefair.co.uk/

5) Midland Game and Country Fair

Weston Park at Shropshire is the setting for the Midland Game and Country Fair, running from 15 to 16 September. Midland is home to the Mitsubishi Motors World Series Gundog Championship, which aims to ferret out the very best dogs and handlers in scurry and working dog tests. Having excelled in the preliminary events, the finalists then demonstrate their prowess at the Grand Final in the Working Dog Arena. The dog and handler team deemed to be the very best will receive a Mitsubishi ASX, valued in excess of £18,000.00. Eligibility for this contest requires entry and acceptable performance in qualifying scurries and working tests held at prior Countryman Fairs through the spring and summer. A parallel championship for junior handlers is also convened at the Midland fair, offering a variety of valuable prizes. 

In addition to the gundog competitions at Midland, villages for terriers, lurchers and other working dogs are open for visitation. Scurries and agility tests for each group and size are conducted, as are demonstrations and interactive showcases. Notable among the exhibits is the Heritage Breed Pavilion, where representatives of British breeds that are dwindling numerically can be found. Examples include the Bloodhound, Irish Terrier, Welsh Corgi Cardigan and Smooth Collie. Also well-attended is the Pet Dog Show in the Working Dog Village. Open to all for a nominal fee, this contest has categories like Waggiest Tail and Most Appealing Eyes.

All information pertaining to the Midland Game and Country Fair is available at http://www.countrymanfairs.co.uk/midland-game-fair/

Chudleys Dog Food

The body conditioning score is a way to assess a dog’s overall health easily, with visual and palpation clues to their physical condition. It is a good way for veterinary and laymen owners alike to know when to be concerned about the animal’s health, and when a diet change might be needed. 

In the most detailed version of the body conditioning scoring system, there are nine separate levels of condition, ranging from the most under nourished to the most overfed, the most healthy body shape being in the centre of the range. The BCS is primarily an assessment of body fat present. 

Visual inspection alone may not be sufficient to determine condition, as coat and stance may obscure details. Palpation of the dog should always be done when the animal is in a standing position, and gently enough that most dogs will view it as a friendly caress, not uncomfortable at all. Palpation should work backwards from the dog’s neck to tail base. 

1. Emaciated
2. Very Thin
3. Thin
4. Underweight
5. Ideal
6. Overweight
7. Heavy
8. Obese
9. Grossly Obese

An emaciated animal will have a visible spine, pelvis, and ribs. They may have very little muscle development, leading to the muscles feeling thin, or flat, to the touch. In addition, they will usually be weak and listless, preferring to lie down, in extreme cases even unable to stand. An animal in this condition is ill and at risk of death. 

The very thin dog will have a prominent waist, may have visible rib bones, but the pelvis will not be as prominent. The spine can easily be palpated. There will be no fat layer over the ribs, and the muscles may be flattened and underdeveloped. There will be a visible lack of muscle on the hind legs in a short-coated dog. This may need to be palpated in a dog with a long coat or feathers on the rear limbs.

In a thin animal there will still be visible or easily palpated ribs, but there will be a minimal fat layer over them. The vertebrae of the lower part of the dog’s back will be obvious, and the waist has a more pronounced tuck than in an ideal dog. 

An underweight dog will have no abdominal fat pad, and while their bones may not be immediately visible, they will be readily felt through coat and skin. Musculature will be fully developed and easily palpated. Viewed from above, there will be a slight indentation at the waist of the abdomen. 

The ideally conditioned dog will be alert, active, with a glossy coat and bright eyes. There will be a light layer of fat over the ribs, and no bones visible to the eye. There will be a visible tuck to the abdomen at the waist region, with a slight fat pad on the abdomen. Overall, the animal will be well-proportioned. 

When a dog is overweight, it will not be easy to palpate the ribs or hips. There will be a heavier fat layer overall, especially on the abdomen. At this condition there is no cause for health concern. 

A heavy animal is visibly fat, with ribs difficult to feel through the layer on them. Viewed from above, the abdomen is no longer concave, but slightly bulge out. The animal may become fatigued easily and prefer to remain sleeping for much of the time. 

Once a dog reaches the obese stage, his diet and exercise should be assessed and adjusted. Just like his owner, the obesity visible on his body leads to shortness of breath and lack of energy. The ribs will be difficult to discern through the fat, and viewed from above his abdomen is rounded. There will no longer be a visible waist from the side. 

A grossly obese dog has fat built up around the neck, legs, and base of the tail, places fat is not normally found in a healthy animal. The dog may appear almost rectangular from above, with a distended abdomen viewed from the side as well. The grossly obese dog will have difficulty moving, and may be reluctant to do so except under duress. 

The nine stage body conditioning scoring for dogs is perhaps more detailed than an ordinary pet owner may need, but for show dogs, working dogs, or those who work with animals on a regular basis it is an excellent tool to judge the health of an animal without invasive tests. The correct Dog Food, nutrition and exercise can then be adjusted to the individual animal. 

Dog breeds and individual dogs vary so widely that judging an individual’s health based solely on weight is impossible.

The BCS system is much more accurate, and simple enough that anyone can use it. Determining the dog’s body mass index (BMI) with the BCS score, can vary not only from breed to breed but during a dog’s lifespan, as a puppy is proportioned differently from a senior dog. Keeping this in mind, the body conditioning score is still the best way to quickly assess the health of your dog.

Our Quality Dog Foods: Chudleys, Autarky, Gusto

We believe that reasonable postage and packaging charges is one of the most important dealbreakers when deciding whether to spend your hard earned money online. So we've always strived to keep ours as low as possible, by working with our suppliers to bring costs down.

As part of our ongoing improvements we've therefore recently updated the store to give all our customers who spend over £40.00 automatic free delivery*. This was partly due to feedback that we received from our customers who felt that we should offer this option, and we're more than happy to oblige!

If you have any comments good or bad about the store, we always like to hear them - simply email us at info@dodsonandhorrellpetfood.co.uk

There's also the chance to win 10% off at the checkout in our monthly prize draw, by completing a short survey here.

*Unfortunately this offer isn't available to customers in certain areas of Scotland, due to the high postage costs involved here. Please check out our Deliveries & Returns page to see if you're affected.

This research has culminated in the development of a brand new range, which includes nine supplements and 15 herbs and herbal blends which will help you to quickly and easily identify the herbs and/or supplements most suitable for your horse.

We have drawn upon our years of experience in manufacture; research and development to bring you tried and tested herbs as well as exciting new improvements to a selection of our supplements. A number of our supplements, including Daily Vitamins & Minerals, Digestive Support, Hoof Support, Joint Support and Performance Vitamins & Minerals, will be available in pellet format from 1st February 2012 onwards.

Chris Gordon, Dodson & Horrell Technical Director says of the changes: “As a leading developer and manufacturer of high-quality horse feeds, we include a comprehensive mineral and vitamin supplement in all our feeds, however we have recognised that adding herbs and supplements to a horse’s daily diet is really beneficial for helping to manage behavioural issues, weak hooves or simply just supporting a healthy lifestyle for both leisure and performance horses.

“The change of some of our supplements from powders into pellets is a big improvement for both horse and owner. Our trials have found that the pellets are more acceptable to the horse as the pellets have a pleasant smell and taste and the pellets also improve flexibility of use as they can be fed on their own as well as within a horse’s daily feed. There is also less wastage from the pellets as powders can often be difficult to handle and can blow away or get stuck to the side of a feed bowl – our new pellets will help to prevent this from happening.”

The range of nine supplements includes products such as Digestive Support, which contains yeast, pre-biotics and psyllium for the nutritional maintenance of your horse’s digestive system and Vitalise, a supplement for promoting performance and vitality.

The 15 herbs and herbal blends include Stroppy Mare, which is aimed at hormonal mares and Mobility, which has been formulated to soothe joint and muscle conditions.

These awards celebrate the best of use of social media by equestrian brands, and help bring the online equine community together. We're extremely grateful to all our Facebook fans for all the brilliant photos, comments and questions that they ask, and are determined to make 2012 our best year yet online - bringing you all the latest newsworthy topics on our page.

There is one stage left of the ESMA awards and for that we need your help again...

To vote:

1. Simply go to http://www.equestriansocialmediaawards.com/voting

2. Vote for Dodson & Horrell in category 7

3. Submit your email address at the bottom of the page and submit your vote!

Our sponsored rider Oliver Townend is also up for a couple of awards, for Professional rider (category 5), and for Townend Online, his horsewear attire brand (category 10).

You have the chance to vote until midday on the 10th February, and the results will be announced in early March on the official ESMA YouTube channel.

• Itch Free helps control and relieve skin irritations, making it the perfect choice to feed sweet itch sufferers.
• Mobility provides nutritional support for joints and muscles, so is ideal for veteran horses and ponies, or those prone to stiffness.
• If your horse is prone to excitability or stress, Placid is a calming supplement that contains Magnesium to support the nervous system.
• Stroppy Mare is designed to nutritionally support mares who are affected by hormone related behavioural problems. Particularly with the mild weather that we’re experiencing at the moment, some mares are coming into season earlier than expected.

There are a whole host of multibuy offers for your dogs too! Autarky is our premium dog food brand; free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives, and also wheat gluten and soya free. Each feed is packed full of wholesome, tasty ingredients.

Buy 2 bags of Autarky Puppy/Junior for just £37.99, (a saving of £9.91). Likewise 2 bags of Autarky Adult Salmon or Mature Lite Salmon are also just £37.99, giving you a fantastic saving of £13.01.

Meanwhile our Gusto range is a cost effective alternative, and we’re continuing our amazing promotion of 2 bags of Gusto Puppy for £15.00.

ashes caused by fireworks.

With this in mind, here are our top tips for Bonfire Night:

Stay calm and relaxed so your pet or horse doesn’t pick up on any anxiety. This is particularly important with young horses or new puppies who may not have experienced fireworks before.


Make sure dogs are well exercised and fed before dark, and shut the curtains/blinds to keep out bright flashes and muffle the bangs. Don’t overwhelm your pet if they’re frightened; let them have space.

Turning on the TV is a great distraction for dogs, and likewise for horses keeping the radio on can really help to soothe and comfort them.

Horseowners – if your neighbours are likely to have a firework display, let them know in advance that there are horses nearby so they can set fireworks off in the opposite direction.

Distract your horse with a larger than normal ration of hay, perhaps in a haynet with small holes to keep him or her occupied if stabled. Any kind of forage to keep them busy is fine.

It’s best to leave your horse in a familiar space whether that be a field or stable, in their normal routine, as long as the environment is safe and secure. Check for foreign objects that could cause injury, or broken fencing. 

Consider bringing in horses that are seriously stressed by fireworks for a few nights in the run up to Bonfire Night, or talk to your vet about possible sedation.

Try to make sure someone is around at the yard at the start of the night at least, just to be sure that your horses aren’t too phased by the fireworks. Make sure that contact details for each owner (if you’re at a livery yard) and the vet’s phone number are easily at hand, just in case.

Bonfire Night should be a fun, enjoyable celebration that brightens up the dark Autumn evenings. Hopefully our tips will help make sure you and your pets or horses enjoy the occasion!