February 28, 2021, Volume 16, Issue 8
March is nearly here and with it comes longer days and warmer temperatures. (Of course, here in Montana, we will continue to have some cold nights and snowy days, but the hope of spring is on the horizon!)
It was Spa Weekend at the ranch!
It is not just the melting of snow and sunnier days that spring brings to the ranch, it is also the shedding of hair of our herd. Being a former biology teacher, I just have to take a few lines and tell you how this process takes place. The eyes of horses pick up the increase in daylight which then alerts the pineal gland (small and located mid-brain) to send hormones that trigger the pituitary gland, which in turn sends a cascade of hormones to trigger the thyroid. The thyroid gland is the one responsible for hair growth and loss (shedding). In the case of our herd, there is A LOT of shedding going on.
This past Saturday, Kevin, Scott, Emily and Brenda took brushes, combs and conditioner out to the pasture to groom the herd. Each horse had masses of hair that came off with just a couple strokes of a curry comb. And, after what seemed like rugs of hair on the ground, all were groomed.
Scooter checking out Hemi’s feet
On a different note, this winter has had its share of cold temperatures, but the overall health of the herd has been good and their weights steady and strong. But, don’t take my word for it. Check out the pictures and see for yourself. 🙂
Happy trails,
Brenda
Dunny and Kev
Em and her main squeeze
Brenda and two of her many guys that she takes such good care of.
One good looking herd!