Vermi is the Latin for worm. Vermiculture is the use of worms to break down organic wastes in compost and decaying matter. Worms break down the organic matter via their digestive processes. These earthworms are a specific type known as red worms, tiger worms, or red wigglers (Eisenia spp.). This fact sheet will discuss the use of worms and other beneficial insects, such as nematodes and praying mantises.  

Many horse owners have concerns about their pastures. Often, they either have weeds appearing, or bare areas of land, both which can be the result of overgrazing. The opposite problem is that the pasture may be overgrown due to too few horses grazing it.  Whatever the pasture issue, there is a method that can be used easily to determine when it is time to do something about it. 

Vital signs are physical indications that let you know that your horse is living, such as temperature, pulse and respiration. These signs can be observed, measured, and monitored to indicate the horse’s level of physical functioning.  Vital signs change with age, sex, weight, fitness, and condition. Any abnormalities in vital signs should prompt you to consult a veterinarian. In order to tell what is abnormal for your horse, you must first know what is normal.  

The first-time, prospective horse buyer might benefit from some insight into what you may read in an equine classified. Keep in mind the classified ad might mean just what it says. Included are some potential alternate definitions for some key phrases. They are broken them into categories that include discipline, training, horse’s condition, and owner’s preference. 

Horse ownership is an exciting prospect. If you are now at the point where you know that you have the means to financially support a horse, you have the knowledge on how to care for the horse, and you are able to ride, wanting to own your own horse that will meet your riding goals and needs is the next logical step. This fact sheet includes some Ideas for ‘screening’ your potential new horse. 

The role of a horse trainer is to prepare the horse  so that the horse is safe and responsive to your cues. This fact sheet contains a list of questions you should ask when looking for a trainer. It is important that you are on the same page, and you both agree on methodology.

Flying insects are always a nuisance, but their activity definitely increases in the summer. New fly control options, where we are defining new as non-traditional, involve combining the use of chemical or organic methods with manure management. 

Having hay analyzed is the only way to determine the actual nutrient content of it. It is important to know this so that you can be sure your horse is consuming an adequate diet. There may or may not be a need to feed grain depending on the quality of the hay.  The better the quality of the hay, the less grain you will need to feed, which can be a significant savings.

By managing horse pastures more effectively, horse managers can increase forage production, lower production costs, improve aesthetics, and promote a healthier environment.  

In 2008, there were many reported cases of botulism, or suspected botulism, in the United States, including horses suspected to be affected in Connecticut. This illness can be a serious problem, so this fact sheet will discuss the causes, signs, and prevention of botulism.