Sprig&Fable

06/06/2024

Update regarding our eggs.

We have been quite fortunate this year to not encounter many unwanted, four-legged visitors. This week, however, that luck has run out. After two fox attacks I am down flock members, including everyone's favorite.. nosey Nancy.

I was home during both attacks and was able to chase off Mr. Fox both times, and with the help of our collie I was able to locate 3 chickens back to safety. The fox was swift, Aayla was quicker (she managed to corner the fox and bit it's tail mid jump 🤯).

This means a lower number of eggs for the remainder of the season. I am not sure when we will be getting more layers as I'm feeling highly discouraged and heartbroken for those we lost. I am asking that our customers please message first before stopping in to ensure supply. As of today the sign at the top of our driveway will be coming down.

04/12/2024

Additional comments from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

We are so glad to have pups participating in this important study! Thank you to Utah State University and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for bringing pertinent livestock guardian dog research back to the forefront. Data is so much more compelling than anecdotal evidence.

It is important to note that livestock guardian dogs are NOT ideal for all people/situations. They do require appropriate selection and management. Hopefully people interested in adding an LGD to their property will continue in their research and source their dogs responsibly. We would be happy to provide resources to anyone looking into LGDs.

Here is a free resource that can help determine if your predator load would be appropriate for an LGD (or multiple) https://livestockguardians.net/predatorscore

04/08/2024

Pals along the south shore, this sounds like a fantastic event ❣️

✨SAVE THE DATE✨ Excited to be collaborating with some cool q***r farmers for this gathering coming up!

Happening May 5th on the South Shore at LaHave Firehall.

Full details to come next week.

✨Feel free to repost / share widely!✨

***rfarmers
***rfarmersgathering

03/10/2024

From eagerly anticipating his arrival - imprinting & sharing fresh milk.

I love this dog and our little herd 🐐

Remember, clocks spring forward tonight 💐⏰

03/04/2024

Eggs for sale!

The hens are laying and we have a surplus of about 9 dozen eggs. 😍 For some that may not sound like a big deal but for our small backyard flock it feels like such a great accomplishment.

I want to try something this year, if you're reading let me know your thoughts in the comments or send me a message.

For every dozen eggs you purchase, I will put your name in a basket. At the end of the month I will draw for a winner as a token of appreciation. The prize?

A breakfast bundle! 🧺
•1 dozen eggs 🥚
•1 loaf of sourdough bread 🥖

This will be limited to those local to Inverness county & Strait region.

This is an experiment ... But I'm excited to give it a go.
Hope to see you round the glen.

03/01/2024

It's almost time!! 🎉🥳🌱

🚨Growing Guide Alert! 🚨

If you're wondering what seeds you can plant in your garden space for growing zones 5 & 6 during the month of March look no further! Share this poster on your social media pages with your friends and family so that we can all help to inspire more people to grow flowers, herbs, and veggies this year.

02/29/2024

Homesteading is trending, that's easy to see thanks to social media. What usually starts with sourdough, gardening and learning food preservation usually leads to getting laying hens and goats. Theres a million reels poking at this in good fun but there are things to consider if you are going to take the leap.

So you get the chickens and the hoof stock ... Then come the predators. So you head online to your local Facebook farm group and ask, "what can I do about the racoons and coyotes eating my animals?!". The typical responses are:
1) Set up a trap and call DNR or "take care of it"
2) Rehome any remaining animals
3) ⚠️Get an LGD⚠️

An LGD is a farmers best line of defense when it comes to protecting your goats and sheep ... But there is A LOT to consider before you introduce one to your farm. My Elda is my favorite parts of getting outside and tending to the animals everyday (don't tell the other animals lol). She takes great pride in her JOB on our small homestead and I would be so lost without her. I am also a stay at home Mom, so I have had lots of time to work with her and train her appropriately over the years. It was not always easy, and it will take up a fair amount of time, especially in the first two years. If this doesn't spark excitement in you, think on it some more.

This article is a great place to start your research if you have been curious/considering getting a livestock guardian dog. If I can offer you any advice, it's PLEASE thoroughly think through if you are in an appropriate environment, and place in your life for this large commitment. While this particular article focuses on rehoming and abandoning rates in America, it's happening here in Canada too. Remember, do your homework. Find reputable breeders WITH working LGD's that you can see in action. And, for goodness sake, there are a lot of creative ways to make income on a homestead ... Backyard breeding doesn't need to be one of them.

With love ❣️

https://aggressivedog.com/2024/02/13/big-fluffy-white-dogs-look-before-you-leap/?fbclid=IwAR22jhsc_z5Wl8dAfD9kx-TiaYR3JWQS9Eg_fNaTF9uqTcp1qXw0iKSiqHg

Since we are often in a position to educate and influence other humans, I thought I might talk livestock guarding dogs (LGD). Across the US, LGD are being surrendered and euthanized at an alarming rate [1]. The vast majority of these are big fluffy white dogs (Great Pyrenees > Maremma) which are the...

02/19/2024

Playing with your dog in the snow brings out the kid in all of us ❣️

With winter in full swing, it's important to keep our furry friends active and engaged, even in the colder months. So, why not make the most of your garden and enjoy some fun activities with your four-legged companion? Here are our top 5 garden activities to do with your dog in winter! 🐾🌳

Always remember safety first! Before venturing out, remember these crucial tips to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable:

1️⃣ Dress Appropriately: Some dogs, especially those with short coats, may need extra protection from the cold. Consider investing in a cozy doggy sweater or jacket to keep them warm during your garden adventures.

2️⃣ Paw Care: Snow, ice, and salt can be harsh on your dog's paws. Protect them by using pet-friendly paw balms or booties. After your garden outing, wipe their paws with a damp cloth to remove any potential irritants.

3️⃣ Hydration: Don't forget to bring fresh water for your dog, as they can become dehydrated even in colder temperatures. Hydration is key to their overall health, regardless of the season.

So, why not bundle up, put on your winter boots, and explore the wonders of your garden with your furry companion? Embrace the beauty of winter and create unforgettable memories together! 🐾❄️

02/19/2024

A rare encounter with one of my young guinea hens.

Blessings are found in these simple, small moments. Thank you for your trust little one, it made my day.

02/04/2024

At around 11am today.

We have already shoveled the back deck 9pm Saturday evening.