SNOHOMISH, Wash. — We’ve all heard the story; someone bought a few beef, hogs, goats, or poultry only to have a series of mishaps. Just getting them home was worthy of a Tonight Show monologue. Breakouts and good neighbor roundups, late night emergency vet calls, nutritional problems, unruly and dangerous behavior, the list can be endless. Suddenly, a small investment in livestock becomes a costly nightmare, often ending in tragedy. Learn how to keep your livestock happy and healthy at the upcoming Livestock Handling and Care presented by the WSU Snohomish County Extension Agriculture and 4-H programs. The event takes place April 21 and 22, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. both days, at the Sheriff’s Posse Arena at 5421 S. Machias Rd., just north of Snohomish, Wash.
Hands-on workshops with live animals will include topics such as hoof trimming, injections, halter training, nutrition, fencing, and more. Taught by award-winning seniors from the WSU Snohomish County 4-H Livestock Program, workshop instructors have the experience and expertise needed to raise and show prize-winning livestock. In addition, all attendees will receive a CD-ROM loaded with resources for livestock owners.
- Poultry. Apr 21, 9 – 11 a.m.: Learn the basics of proper care and handling for all types of poultry. Egg & meat breeds, housing, nutrition, & more. Demonstration and hands-on.
- Beef. Apr. 21, 12 – 3 p.m.: Learn proper leading, handling, dehorning, and injection techniques along with fencing, nutrition, and more. Demonstration and hands-on.
- Swine. Apr 22, 9 – 12 p.m.: Learn how to raise great pork with safety as a focus. Handling, housing, fencing, nutrition, and more. Demonstration and hands-on.
- Goats. Apr 22, 1 – 3 p.m.: Dairy or meat, you’ll learn the basics of handling, nutrition, fencing, housing, dehorning, and more. Demonstration and hands-on.
Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up now to save your spot. $25 per person for any workshop; $45 per person for any two; $65 per person for any three, or save and take all four for $75 per person. To register, download the form at http://bit.ly/GErZx6, and mail with your check to the address on the form or contact Karie Christensen: 425-357-6039, christensen4@wsu.edu. For more information on the workshops, contact Marilyn Segle, mander@wsu.edu, 425-357-6044.
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