| Good Pasture = Dr. Green Pasture Hazards by Kevin H. Kline & Edward N. Ballard Neglected, non-productive pastures may result in poor health and body condition, and may also be a major source of exposure to internal parasites such as large and small strongyles and ascarids. Horses on pasture must be maintained on a parasite control program. They must also be checked frequently for injuries from unexpected encounters with fences, other horses, and miscellaneous environmental hazards. Frequently inspect not only your horses but also your pastures for dangerous objects and possible toxic plants. Pastures located near wooded areas may contain white snake root or bracken fern, while horses in pastures bordering residential areas may occasionally be exposed to poisonous ornamental plants such as Japanese yew or cherry trees. If you control undesirable broadleaf weeds with an herbicide such as 2,4-D, do not allow your horses to graze the treated pasture for at least seven days after application.
Kevin H. Kline is an Associate Professor of Animal Sciences, and Edward N. Ballard is an Animal Systems Extension Educator, both at the University of Illinois in Effingham. This article appeared in the Spring 2000 issue of Rural Heritage. |
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05 October 2005