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Christmas Comes Early: Carpe Diem Farms
Written By: Sue Blair - Carpe Diem Farms | Issue: 2020/12 - December
The horses of Carpe Diem Farms celebrate the arrival of Christmas with an abundance of Holiday Cheer – they’re healthy and happy.
Some of you may not feel like this is the typical “shout out” to Jolly Ole St. Nick, however, when it comes to the health and well-being of the Carpe Diem herd, it’s just that.
Gifts come to the farm in a variety of ways.
Some of the greatest gifts are from the professionals who provide important hoof and teeth care to our herd. Every five to six weeks our farrier, Pete Ramey, comes from Tiger, Georgia, to care for the horses’ hooves and apply Easy’s Slippers. Hoof care is a vital part of maintaining the overall health of the horses. You may have heard the phrase, “No Foot, No Horse.” It is reality.
Good nutrition is only a part of the equation to maintain healthy horses. Without annual dental care, nutrients cannot be broken down properly in the lateral chewing movement of the jaw. A misalignment in the 24 sets of molars can result in poor nutrition and digestion.
Like us, horses have only one stomach and only one opportunity to chew, break down the fibers, mix them with saliva and provide vital fuel for critical energy, and maintain good health throughout their aging process. Also, like us they get two sets of teeth, one as a baby which they lose at two to three and their permanent teeth which follow.
Once a year our friend and veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Miller-Bailey, comes from Friendsville(!), Tennessee, to take care of the herds’ teeth. Using a power drill, files,and a tarter-removing tool, she uses her expertise and again gives the horses the gift of proper dental care.
So, though these gifts don’t come in stockings hung on their stalls; they are blessings to each of our equines, maintaining good health, and in turn gifts to those we serve. May the season be equally blessed for you.
Happy Holidays and a joy-filled New Year!