Seasonal Menace: Protecting Against External Parasites
While rain followed by sunshine produces the eye-catching sight of a rainbow, it can also mark the need for livestock owners to confront the insects and parasites that thrive in the summer season. To help owners protect their livestock, Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & […]
Animal Behavior During Solar Eclipses: What to Expect
On April 8, 13 states in the U.S. — starting with Texas — will experience brief moments of nighttime darkness mid-day as the moon glides in front of the sun, blocking its rays. A solar eclipse, while fascinating to witness, raises important safety considerations, not just for humans but also for our beloved animals. Dr. […]
Protecting Your Poultry From Bird Flu
With winter approaching, birds are migrating south to escape the cold and take advantage of more abundant food sources. But birds aren’t the only ones taking advantage of this migratory ritual. Avian influenza viruses, more commonly known as bird flu, can spread across the country if migrating birds carry the viruses with them on their […]
Managing Parasite Infections In Small Ruminants
Warm seasons are an excellent time for livestock to roam outdoors and munch on the wild vegetation, yet with grazing comes the risk of ingesting parasites. Because small ruminants like sheep and goats are most at risk for parasites during grazing seasons, Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of […]
Helping Livestock Beat The Heat This Summer
The best place to be when the sweltering summer weather arrives is inside with air conditioning, yet livestock outside of air-conditioned barns often need other ways to beat the heat. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says that while all livestock can cool […]
Fulfilling The Unique Needs Of Donkeys
Owning any animal can be both challenging and rewarding. Although they have a reputation for being stubborn, donkeys can make great additions to an animal herd. But owners should first understand what it takes to keep them healthy before buying one. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary […]
Backyard Chickens Part 2: Maintaining Healthy Birds
After researching, preparing for, and buying healthy chickens, first-time flock owners will need to know all that is involved in keeping their backyard birds healthy. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, encourages owners to first contact their veterinarian after bringing home their chickens […]
Backyard Chickens Part 1: Preparing To Buy Healthy Birds
After egg prices hit record highs in late 2022 and early 2023, having a flock of backyard chickens to provide a personal supply of eggs can be tempting. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers tips for designing coops and researching hatcheries before […]
Preparing Your Food Animals To Beat The Cold
When the weather dips into cold and freezing temperatures, especially at night, humans stay cozy by turning on heaters and pulling out extra blankets. Food animals, on the other hand, require special preparation to stay warm and survive cold weather conditions. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary […]