Cold Weather Complications By Mario Villarino
Cold weather can be a challenge for everybody, even for farmers and ranchers. Cold weather makes everything a little bit harder to accomplish and equipment tends to get broken or fail more often in winter, or at least seems to be. Horses are specially sensitive to cold weather and lack of proper hydration during cold days. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, when horses consume winter feeds, water requirements may increase. Hay and grain typically contain less than 15% moisture, while in contrast, pastures posses 60 to 80% moisture. There are two common complications resulting from inadequate water consumption during cold weather: decreased feed intake and impaction colic. Even if quality feed is offered, horses will consume less if not drinking enough water. If less feed is consumed, horses might not have enough energy to tolerate the cold. Fecal contents must maintain adequate moisture levels. If fecal material becomes too dry, intestinal blockage or impaction may occur. A horse will not develop an impaction in one day, but can over several days to several weeks of inadequate water consumption.
Most adult horses weighing 1,000 pounds require a minimum of 10 to 12 gallons of water each day for their basic physiological needs. During winter months, water should be kept between 45 to 65°F to maximize consumption. Previous research indicated that ponies increased their water consumption by approximately 40% each day when the water was warmed above freezing during cold weather. Increasing salt intake will also stimulate a horse to drink more; adult horses should consume one to two ounces of salt per day. Waterers should be cleaned regularly, and clean, fresh water should always be available, regardless of temperature. If using a tank heater to warm water, inspect it carefully for worn wires or other damage, and check the water for electrical sensations or shocks. Snow or ice is not an adequate water source for horses. There have been a few scientific studies that show some horses who are acclimated to winter weather conditions can meet their water requirements from snow. However, there are serious health risks associated with snow consumption, including the length of adjustment period as horses learn to ingest snow, the actual water content of the snow, and total water intake. Therefore, some wild horses can receive their water needs from snow, but the risk of gastrointestinal tract problems, colic, and reduced feed intake is significant for domestic horses. It is important to have a good working client relationship with a trusted veterinarian that can help you if your horse colic. Colic is a veterinary emergency that needs prompt care.
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
Senior Bridge
Bridge players at the Sulphur Springs Senior Center are always looking for new teams to join in the fun. Currently a “substitute” from Winnsboro drives each week to complete a team. The group is missing a 98 year-old player due to medical issues. Men are welcome to join, but historically Men lack the commitment required to keep harmony among the other players. Assemble a team of 4 or just watch each Thursday at 12:30 pm.
The Hood Is In; First United Methodist Church
New oven and a much needed Vent-A-Hood
Things are looking up in the kitchen at First United Methodist Church in Sulphur Springs. A gigantic Vent-A-Hood now has dominion over heat and fire safety. The kitchen where Dinner Bell makes it weekly meals is nearing completion. In addition to the ventilation and fire safely upgrades a new commercial double oven stands ready.
Head cook Judy Gilreath gives a tour to remember. Highlights include the washing station, the French “industrial food processor” and the time saving Iced Tea machine. “It’s a community event each Wednesday”, says Gilreath. Cooks and helpers from different denominations help in the preparation and delivery of meals.
Support for the Dinner Bell come from many sources. United Way helps foot the bill as well as a weekly sponsor. The sponsor provides food and helpers. Sponsors can be a business, a group, or even in memory of a loved one. Sunday School classrooms have a jar where church members make donations as well.
Diners come from all walks of life. The dinning room is wheelchair accessible. Young, old, needy or just hungry… Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to come.
Dinner Bell is on for January 11th after a 3 week hiatus due to the essential upgrades to the kitchen.
Lady Cats to Play Texas High Varsity Only Friday at 6 p.m.
A time change for Lady Cat basketball was announced late Thursday afternoon. The Lady Cats play a varsity only Friday at SSHS gym due to possible weather issues.
The Lady Cats host Texas High in Wildcats Gym at 6 p.m. as they seek to remain undefeated in district play. The Lady Cats are 4-0 in district, 18-3 for the season, and are ranked #24 in Class 5A in the latest Texas Association of Basketball Coaches.
The game will be broadcast live on KSST and video replayed on Suddenlink Cable Channel 18 at a later time.
Florinditas Pupuseria – A taste of El Salvador in Sulphur Springs
Tucked away at 105 Weaver Street, an authentic pupuseria awaits. The Florinditas Pupuseria is a family owned spot near downtown Sulphur Springs, TX. Behind the counter are two charming ladies who hail from El Salvador. The immigration of their family from El Salvador started with their Mother, who decided to escape a 12 year civil war.
During the course of a week, many family members help out, and each contributes in their own way. Several components come together to make a pupusa, and each is prepared on site.
Olga and Mayra
A pupusa might be described at a flatbread filled with meat, cheese vegetables and spices, then cooked on a flat griddle. They are served with a slaw… and a spicy sauce that one should add to taste. Traditional Latin beverages are served, including horchata. Soft drinks are also available. However, due to their Christian beliefs, absolutely no alcohol will be served. The menu is simple, with specials added periodically.
The hours are somewhat restricted, but they are expanding due to increased response. Thursday 10 – 6, Friday and Saturday 10 – 9, and Sunday 10 – 6.
This is as close to a trip to El Salvador you can get without boarding an airplane. Call ahead for take-out at (903) 919 – 5002. Salud!
Wine Grape Grower Workshop Set for Los Pinos Ranch, Pittsburg
PITTSBURG – The third annual Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Texas Wine Grape Grower Workshop will be held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 20 at Los Pinos Ranch, 658 County Road 1334 in Pittsburg. Michael Cook, AgriLife Extension viticulture program specialist, Denton, said the program is designed for established and prospective wine-grape growers located in North and East Texas. Cook said the workshop will cover topics and practices critical to the development and maintenance of vineyards and a successful grape growing program. Cost is $40, and an RSVP is required at [email protected] by Jan. 13.
Topics and speakers include:
– Principles of Pruning — Cook.
– Integrated Canopy Management – Dr. Justin Scheiner, AgriLife Extension viticulturist, College Station.
– Spur Pruning Demonstration – Cook.
– Laws and Regulations – Dale Scott, Texas Department of Agriculture, Grapevine.
– Building a Spray Program – Scheiner.
Speakers and discussions will be followed by a vineyard and winery tour by Gerald Jones and Arnulfo Perez of Los Pinos Ranch.
“Growers of all experience levels should attend because pruning is one of the most critical vineyard practices during the season,” he said. “Whether you are new to pruning or would like a refresher, all will benefit.
“Furthermore, many growers struggle to develop sound spray programs, and AgriLife Extension will address the topic in detail, ensuring growers are well equipped with the latest research on the subject. Workshops such as this also offer the unique opportunity to network with other growers in the region.”
Rotary Club of Sulphur Springs Meets for Voting and Helmets
At the weekly meeting of the Sulphur Springs Rotary Club, voting for the Board of Directors and Officers for 2017-2018 took place. Newly elected Officers take their position in July. President Neva Mohesky said the club now has 77 Members.
Remodeling at First United Methodist Church continues. The space allotted for the meeting was a bit crowded, but that did not dampen the lively crowd.
In addition to the business at hand, a presentation on helmets, and why they should be worn more by everyone was given by recently transferred member Stan Kent.
Wildcats Soccer Topped Patriots in Forney Tourney
The Wildcats’ soccer team presented new coach Nicky Wiggins with a victory in his first regular season game as a head coach as the Wildcats topped the Garland Lakeview Centennial Patriots, 4-1 at a Forney tournament Thursday morning. The Wildcats also play Richardson J.J. Pearce at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the tournament.
SSHS Soccer Game Day
Both the Wildcats’ soccer team and Lady Cats’ soccer team open the regular season at separate tournaments on this Thursday game day.
The Wildcats got an early start as hey took on Garland Lakeview Centennial at 9:45 a.m. in a Forney tournament. The match marked the head coaching debut for Wildcats Soccer Coach Nicky Wiggins. He replaced Andy Holt who is now the Head Soccer Coach at Frisco Wakeland. The Wildcats are also scheduled to play Richardson J.J. Pearce Thursday at 6:30 p.m. The Wildcats have prepared for the regular season with two scrimmages, one with the alumni last Saturday that the Wildcats won 4-0 and one at Royse City Tuesday night that ended in a 0-0 tie. The Wildcats were 14-10-2 last year. They returned to the playoffs and dropped a close match to Lufkin in bi-district last year.
The Lady Cats’ soccer team is just getting their regular season underway as they are scheduled to play South Garland in a Terrell tournament Thursdaybeginning at 12:45 p.m. South Garland won the tournament last year and the Lady Cats finished third. The Lady Cats also play Dallas Hillcrest Thursday at 5:45 p.m. The Lady Cats already have four scrimmages under their belts as they enter play Thursday. They scrimmaged Paris and Pleasant Grove on the road and played their alumni and North Lamar at home. The Lady Cats won all four scrimmages. They lost only one starter off last year’s stellar team that ended up 19-7-1 and made it into the third round of the playoffs before losing a 2-0 game to Mansfield Legacy at Terrell.
