Equine Extension Team at Penn State

08/28/2026

Donkeys have different nutritional needs than horses. They are much more metabolically efficient and get overweight easily.

While donkeys and horses are both equines, donkeys require a different diet to keep them at a healthy weight and avoid health problems.

08/27/2026

Do you know the core vaccines that all horses should get? This is particularly important now during mosquito season!

08/26/2026

Virtual Horse Hay Workshops are back!

🔷October 6 & 8, 2026, from 6:00pm-8:00pm.🔷

Join Penn State Extension equine and agronomy experts to discuss everything about horse hay. This two-night online workshop is designed for horse owners seeking to better understand hay and its role in equine nutrition. It is also useful for hay producers who sell to horse owners. The first session will cover how hay is produced, safe storage practices, and practical considerations for buying and selling. The second session will focus on interpreting hay analysis, the impact of mold and toxic plants, and the role of sugars in equine diets.

The sessions will each be recorded and emailed to all registrants in case you can't attend live. Only $10 for the entire series!

Register: https://extension.psu.edu/horse-hay-workshop

08/24/2026

Summer is winding down, and it's an excellent time to think about your pasture management. This article covers soil testing, mowing, w**d control, grazing management, using dry lots, and pasture renovation. It's a great primer and hits all the major points. If you have specific questions about your farm, reach out to us! We can help!

Proper pasture management leads to high quality, productive pastures that can supply excellent nutrition for horses.

08/23/2026

Sunday Funday!

08/22/2026

Our next Lunch & Learn webinar will be on October 20 from 12p-1pm on Finances of Horse Ownership!

Most people know that owning a horse is expensive. Boarding fees, grain, hay, veterinary care, and other routine expenses can quickly add up. However, there are also many hidden costs that prospective horse owners may not consider before purchasing their first horse. This webinar walks through the most common expenses associated with horse ownership and demonstrates how to estimate annual costs using a practical budget. All registrants will receive a budget template to help plan for these expenses. Whether you are new to horses or have been around them for years, this webinar will help you better understand the financial commitment of horse ownership and prepare you to make informed decisions.

Register: https://extension.psu.edu/finances-of-horse-ownership/

08/21/2026

If you manage a horse pasture, buttercups may be the farthest thing from your mind right now. However, it is a good idea to start making a plan for next spring if you had a problem with buttercup this past spring. Start by taking a soil test now!

Check out the rest of the control strategies in this new article from equine educator Laura Kenny.

This article will discuss how to properly control buttercups in horse pastures.

08/20/2026

Here are some helpful tips for keeping your horses safe at and after shows, clinics, fairs, etc.

08/19/2026

Late summer can be a great time to plant and overseed forages in pastures. There is less w**d pressure in the late summer compared to a spring planting. Since seedlings need 6-8 weeks to establish before the first killing frost of the year, it is not recommended to plant seed later in the fall.

When done correctly, late summer forage seedings give producers the highest chance of establishment success. This guide will help ensure it is done properly.

08/18/2026

‼️LAST CHANCE‼️

Our next FREE Lunch & Learn webinar will be on August 19, 2026 from 12-1pm EST. See comments for the link to register!
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Selecting and evaluating a bit can be challenging given the wide range of options available. This webinar explores the fundamentals of bit fit and function, including how different cheekpieces and mouthpieces influence pressure and communication between horse and rider. Participants will learn about snaffle and curb bits, leverage, ports, bit materials, and bitless options while examining common myths and misconceptions surrounding bit use. The program will also discuss factors to consider when selecting a bit based on the needs of the individual horse, rider, and discipline, providing practical information to support equine welfare and effective communication.