Fraser Valley Hay Brokers

27/08/2024

16/08/2024

We are loving our new delivery truck pictured here with some new ultra soft leafy big bales of Alfalfa.

12/01/2024

We've got some fantastic news to share with you all! Last week, we introduced a brand-new addition to our hay family: an exquisite compressed 1st cut Timothy / Alfalfa mix. 🌿🌾 This blend is not just hay; it's a feast for your horses, crafted with care and quality.
🚀 Our first batch sold out in a few days, snatched up by savvy horse owners who couldn't resist. 🐎It sold out privately before we even had a chance to shout about it!
But fear not! We're thrilled to announce that more of this fabulous hay is coming in soon, set to arrive next week! 🚛🌟 And even better is that we will have it in stock for the next couple of months.

🌟 Why You'll Love It:
Superior Quality: A blend crafted for the pickiest eaters!
Gorgeous & Nutritious: A nice balance of Timothy and Alfalfa.
💰 Unbeatable Price: At just $420 per skid and 1375 lbs per skid, this is not only fantastic horse hay but also incredible bang for your buck!

19/05/2023

Tax Rules for Hay
There has been a lot of misunderstanding lately with regards to the tax laws for hay in British Columbia. Here is some information to help offer some clarity for what is required of hay dealers, (including FVHB) for the taxes that we are required to collect. This is information that we have confirmed with several other feed stores in the Fraser Valley. Feed stores that have been directly audited and have been made to pay back taxes for violations that auditors had found because they previously were not aware of some of these laws. We have also had extensive conversations with the BC Tax Answers Centre including detailed emails specifically in regards to PST collection standards. If anyone is interested in viewing those emails, or is interesting in verifying this info with a local feed store that was audited, please feel welcome to reach out to us. We would be happy to provide you that information in private messages.
1. GST
GST collection is only dictated by weight. All orders of hay that are under 750 KGs are always subject to GST. Any orders of hay over 750 KGs are exempt, regardless of the intended use of the hay. Our two main units of hay we sell are large squares and skids of compressed hay. None of our big bales or skids of compressed are heavier than 750 KGs so any purchase of one of those would be subject to GST. Two or more of any of those will be heavier than 750 KGs and will be GST exempt.
2. PST
Any sale of hay to an end user/farmer is subject to PST unless the buyer has a Farm Folio Number, AKA Farm Status. However, even if the buyer has a Farm Folio number, most hay that is bought for the purpose of feeding horses is not PST exempt. There are some horses that can be exempt if they are used for limited purposes including: work horses (such as a horse that pulls a plow) or meat horses. However, it has been our experience to date that none of these exemptions apply to the horse owners we have dealt with in the Fraser Valley. Therefore, in a nutshell, pretty much all hay purchased for horses is PST taxable.

It has been our experience that, as the rules have been unclear in the recent past, this has caused some customers to be upset and look elsewhere for their hay. Particularly, for horse owners that do have farm status and are now expected to pay PST. The frustration with taxes is wholly understandable as nobody likes paying the government more than we must. Unfortunately, as I specified at the start, we have done our homework and are 100% sure, with supporting proofs that this is the new reality. I will also just say that, while we know that there may be some hay dealers that still are not charging the necessary taxes, the time will inevitably come when these dealers are audited. And when they are mandated to pay back taxes, they will certainly be reaching out to their customers to help them back pay those. So, while it may seem as though you are buying hay tax free now, unfortunately you will have to pay it eventually. We here at FVHB, feel that our customers will have an overall better experience by knowing where they stand with what they will owe or not owe in the future. Thank you for taking the time to read this boring yet important topic. Have a great day!

09/05/2023

Senior horses have unique dietary needs, particularly when it comes to hay. As horses age, their ability to chew and digest forage effectively decreases. To address this, it is important to choose easily digestible hay varieties such as 2nd cut timothy or orchard grass. These hays are softer and have a lower fiber content, making them easier for senior horses to chew and digest.
Soaking hay in warm water before feeding can further enhance its digestibility. This process helps break down complex carbohydrates and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal blockages. Additionally, warm water soaking provides added hydration for senior horses, which can be beneficial during warmer weather or if they have decreased water intake.
Senior horses may also experience dental issues, such as missing or worn teeth, making it challenging for them to consume hay in its traditional form. In such cases, finely chopping the hay or offering it in the form of cubes or pellets can make it easier for them to consume and obtain the necessary nutrients. At Fraser Valley Hay Brokers, we carry a superior product called “US Alfalfa” which is a dehydrated chopped alfalfa in a bag form.
It is may also be beneficial to feed a varied diet by offering different types of hay. This helps ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients. Mixing grass hays, like timothy or orchard grass, with legume hays, such as alfalfa, can provide a more comprehensive nutritional profile for senior horses.
Monitoring the body condition of senior horses and consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist is crucial for tailoring their hay-based diet to meet their specific needs. They can provide valuable guidance on adjusting the diet, including the addition of specialized senior horse feeds or supplements to compensate for any nutritional deficiencies that may arise with age.
By considering these factors and providing the appropriate hay and diet adjustments, caretakers can help senior horses meet their unique dietary needs and support their overall health and well-being in their later years.

26/04/2023

We just got in some really nice compressed 1st cut Timothy from Washington. Really nice and green. Has a nice crunchy texture but not super course either. A great choice for a lot of horses such as easy keepers, horses with digestive issues, and horses only being lightly worked.

11.36% Protein, 36.77 ADF, 11.8% WSC, 9.76% ESC, and 0.88% Starch.

65 lbs per bale average,
24 bales per skid, $450/skid

04/04/2023

As a horse owner, it's important to understand how to read a hay analysis to determine the nutritional value of the hay you're feeding your horse. On any feed analysis sheet, we will always be looking at the Dry Matter column.
One of the most important things to look for is the percentage of crude protein, which should ideally be between 10-12% for most adult horses. This is an indicator of the hay's quality and its ability to provide your horse with essential amino acids for muscle and tissue growth.
Additionally, you should look at the levels of fiber, including neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF), which help you determine the hay's digestibility and its potential to cause digestive issues like colic. The ideal target numbers for NDF are between 40-50%, while ADF should be between 30-40%.
Other important factors to consider include the levels of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), which should be kept below 12% for most horses, especially those with metabolic issues. This is important because high levels of NSC can lead to health problems like laminitis. The NSC number is often not listed on certain feed analysis tests. However it is easy to calculate the NSC by adding the Water Soluble Carbohydrates (WSC) and the Starch. EI, if on the dry matter of the test, the WSC is 12.5% and the Starch is 1.5%, the NSC for that test would be 14.0%.
Understanding the test analysis can help you make informed decisions about the hay you feed your horse and ensure that they receive the proper nutrition for optimal health and performance. By aiming for these target numbers, you can provide your horse with the best possible diet and help them thrive.
At Fraser Valley Hay Brokers, we test all of our hay so you can know what kind of hay you are getting for your horse. Feel free to ask if you have any questions regarding hay tests in general or regarding one test in particular.

29/03/2023

How much hay should I feed my horse?

Did you know that hay should make up a significant portion of your horse's overall diet? In fact, horses typically require 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in forage each day. This means that a 1000-pound horse would require 15 to 20 pounds of hay per day. However, the amount of hay needed may vary depending on your horse's age, activity level, and overall health. Different types of hay also have varying nutritional content, with Alfalfa hay containing more protein and calcium than Timothy hay, for example. It's important to choose the right type of hay based on your horse's nutritional needs. For performance horses or horses with high energy needs, adding additional feed or supplements may be necessary to provide adequate nutrition. At Fraser Valley Hay Brokers, we offer a variety of hay types to suit your horse's specific needs. Contact us today to learn more!"

08/03/2023

We all want to ensure that our animals are healthy and free from diseases. One often overlooked factor that plays a significant role in animal health is the quality of hay that they consume. The immune system of animals is a complex network that helps protect them from various diseases and illnesses. The quality of hay can impact an animal's immune system and their ability to resist infections and diseases.

Hay is the primary source of nutrition for many livestock animals, including horses, cows, goats, and sheep. The nutritional value of hay is determined by its composition, including its protein, fiber, mineral, and vitamin content. The quality of hay varies depending on various factors, including the type of grass, weather conditions, soil quality, and harvesting methods.

When animals consume poor quality hay, their immune system can become compromised, making them more susceptible to diseases and infections. Poor quality hay can contain harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that can cause illnesses and infections. These microorganisms can also produce toxins that can negatively affect the animal's health.

On the other hand, high-quality hay can boost the animal's immune system, making them more resistant to diseases and infections. High-quality hay contains a balanced nutritional composition that can support the animal's overall health, including its immune system. Good quality hay is free of harmful microorganisms and toxins that can compromise the animal's immune system.

Hay quality can also affect the animal's digestive system, which is a crucial component of the immune system. Digestive health is essential for the absorption of nutrients and the elimination of waste products. Poor quality hay can cause digestive problems such as colic and diarrhea, which can weaken the animal's immune system and make them more susceptible to diseases.

It is essential to work with a reputable hay supplier who understands the importance of hay quality and can provide high-quality hay for your animals. High-quality hay may cost more, but it can have significant benefits for your animal's health and well-being in the long run.

www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

28/02/2023

In colder weather, horses may need some changes to their diet to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need to maintain their health and stay warm. Here are some dietary adjustments that may be necessary in colder weather:

Increased Forage: In cold weather, horses burn more calories to maintain their body temperature. To compensate for this, you may need to increase your horse's forage intake, either by providing more hay or by allowing your horse to graze for longer periods of time.

Higher Quality Forage: The quality of your horse's forage is also important in colder weather. Look for hay that is higher in protein, fiber, and calories to help keep your horse warm and provide the energy they need to stay healthy.

We have a complete selection of high quality hays for every season. All of our current stock is listed on our website below with feed analysis listed.

www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

24/02/2023

Why is 3rd cut Timothy the best feed option for goats and sheep?

Feeding 3rd cut Timothy hay to goats and sheep offers numerous nutritional benefits compared to earlier cuts. As the plant undergoes continued growth, it progresses through successive stages of development characterized by changes in the chemical composition of its leaves and stems. Third cut Timothy hay, being derived from the most advanced stage of plant development, has a higher accumulation of nonstructural carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals, which makes it a more nutrient-dense option that meets the dietary requirements of goats and sheep.

Goats and sheep are known to be selective grazers that prefer high-quality forage, and 3rd cut Timothy hay satisfies their appetite. This hay has achieved maximum fiber digestion potential, resulting in a higher digestibility and palatability compared to earlier cuts of hay. Additionally, it is less dusty than earlier cuts, which can be beneficial for animals with respiratory issues. All of these factors result in less wastage and more efficient nutrient utilization for your animals, which ultimately leads to improved health, growth, and production.

We have 3rd cut Timothy available in both small compressed bales as well as large 3x4x8 feet squares.

Check out our website for all of our pricings along with weights and feeds analysis.
www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

22/02/2023

What are the benefits of feeding 2nd cut Timothy to Horses?

1. Higher protein content: 2nd cut Timothy hay has a higher protein content than 1st cut, making it a great option for horses with higher energy requirements.
2. Improved digestion: The finer texture of 2nd cut Timothy hay can aid in improved digestion, especially for horses with dental issues.
3. Better nutrient retention: 2nd cut Timothy hay has a higher leaf-to-stem ratio, meaning it retains more nutrients than other cuts.
4. Reduced risk of colic: Horses that consume 2nd cut Timothy hay have a reduced risk of colic due to its superior nutrient profile and digestion benefits.
5. Better coat and hoof health: The higher protein content in 2nd cut Timothy hay can improve the health and appearance of a horse's coat and hooves.
6. Lower sugar content: 2nd cut Timothy hay has a lower sugar content than some other types of hay, making it a great option for horses with metabolic issues.
7. Rich in vitamins and minerals: 2nd cut Timothy hay is rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E.
8. 2nd cut Timothy hay is also a great source of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in horses

Great news. We have just reduced price on our popular 2nd Cut 3x4 Timothy bales. Now just $350/bale. Awesome hay for a great price!

www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

17/02/2023

What hay should I feed my horse?

Hay is a critical part of a horse's diet, and it's essential to select the right type of hay to meet your horse's nutritional needs. With so many different types of hay available, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. Here's a quick guide to help you select the ideal hay for your horse.

Alfalfa Hay: Alfalfa hay is an excellent choice for horses that need a lot of protein in their diet, such as pregnant mares, young growing horses, and high-performance horses. However, it can be too rich for horses that are not as active, as it can cause weight gain.

1st Cut Timothy Hay: 1st cut Timothy hay is typically more fibrous than other cuts, making it an excellent choice for horses that are prone to colic or are older and have dental issues. It's also a good choice for horses that need to maintain their weight.

2nd Cut Timothy Hay: 2nd cut Timothy hay is a good all-around hay and can be used for most horses. It's typically more nutrient-dense than 1st cut and has a good balance of protein and fiber.

3rd Cut Timothy Hay: 3rd cut Timothy hay is typically the most nutrient-dense of all the Timothy hay cuts. It's an excellent choice for horses that need to maintain their weight or need to gain weight. However, it can be too rich for horses that are not as active.

Orchard Grass: Orchard grass is an excellent choice for horses that need a lower protein content in their diet. It's also a good choice for horses that are prone to colic or have dental issues, as it's typically more fibrous.

Grass Alfalfa Mix: A grass alfalfa mix is an excellent choice for horses that need both protein and fiber in their diet. It's a good choice for horses that are more active and need the extra energy.

Teff Hay: Teff hay is a newer type of hay and has become more popular in recent years. It's an excellent choice for horses that have insulin resistance, as it's typically lower in sugar content. It's also a good choice for horses that need to gain weight.

In conclusion, selecting the ideal hay for your horse depends on a variety of factors, including their nutritional needs, age, activity level, and health issues. By understanding the different types of hay available and their benefits, you can make an informed decision about which type of hay is best for your horse. Remember to monitor your horse's weight and overall health regularly and adjust their diet as needed.

To see a complete list of all of our available hays with feed analysis, check out our website at www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

16/02/2023

Are you looking for the softest, cleanest, and greenest hay for your noble steeds? Look no further than our 3rd cut compressed Orchard Grass Hay from the lush fields of Oregon. This hay has been carefully cultivated and compressed to ensure optimal nutrition for your equine friends. Don't settle for less when it comes to the health and happiness of your horses. Choose the best, choose our 3rd cut Orchard Grass.

60 lbs per skid, 24 bales per skid - $580/skid

15/02/2023

We've got some exciting news for y'all - we've just restocked our bins with the best quality compressed 1st cut Timothy hay! We know how quickly it flew off our shelves last month, so we've made sure to stock up on enough to meet the demand this time around. Beautiful Timothy for a great price.

1440 pound skids for $420/skid

www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

03/02/2023

"Exciting news! We've lowered the prices on some of our popular hay bales and have a variety of options to choose from. Thank you to all of our wonderful customers for supporting us. We're grateful for you and appreciate the opportunity to provide you with the best hay products around. Come check out our selection and take advantage of these great deals! "

www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

20/01/2023

Thanks Dawn. We are very grateful for having you as a customer.

17/01/2023

For anyone used to feeding hay cubes for horses needing because of poor teeth, you should really consider chopped Dehydrated Alfalfa. Introducing a product that has all the benefits and more of cubes and none of the disadvantages. Our "US Alfalfa", premium chopped alfalfa is made with select high quality, highly nutritious alfalfa from Kansas USA. This product, like cubes, but even more so, is very soft and easily digestible. However it requires no soaking as it is bagged at an even moisture level. Never again do you need to worry about horses choking on cubes that weren't thoroughly soaked. "US Alfalfa" is made through a unique process. The alfalfa, once cut is immediately picked up and ran through a dehydrator rather than drying for days in the sun. It is then chopped and mixed with molasses and a preservative. This process saves much of the nutrients that are lost in conventional harvesting methods. The end result is a feed that you can trust will be best possible solution for your horse.

https://www.fvhaybrokers.com/dehydrated-bagged-hay/

02/01/2023

Happy New Year !

08/12/2022

Keeping the trucks rolling with deliveries in the Fraser Valley. Many thanks to all of our wonderful customers!

25/10/2022

Are you having a hard time finding just the right hay for your animal? We are continually expanding our selection of available hay products. We really do have a little bit of everything here for everyone. Like for example, we are now carrying premium quality compressed teff grass hay. Teff grass is an exceptionally palatable grass hay for horses that is especially low in sugar and is on average higher in protein that other grasses. However if you need that basement level sugar but prefer lower protein, we got you covered with premium 1st cut timothy at 7% sugar and 8.46% protein. Those are just the start. We also have, 2nd cut timothy, 3rd cut timothy, orchard grass, alfalfa, alfalfa grass mix and straw. All of our products are available to see with feed analysis on our website Ask your vet what your animal needs and easily find it at www.fvhaybrokers.com/hay

26/02/2022

For a limited time we have some 3x4x8 bales of 2nd Cut Washington Orchard Grass. Lush, soft and great color. Great hay for horses, sheep and goats. Bales weigh 1100-1200 pounds for $345/bale.

11/02/2022

Looking for a premium soft grass? We have in stock some very nice 2nd cut Washington Timothy. Low sugar hay. Great for horses, goats, sheep and calves. Available now while inventory lasts.
$340/bale for a 1160 bale

21/01/2022

Just brought in some more organic compressed straw this week as there has been a big demand lately. Very nice and soft and the compressed bales take up less than half of the space as conventional bales.

08/01/2022

Anyone struggling to find hay, we have a diverse selection in stock. Alfalfa, Timothy, Orchard Grass and Straw.