By T.L. Meyer
Recent wildfires in Nebraska have left many cattle operations facing urgent management decisions. Once humans are safe, producers should focus on three priorities: stabilizing livestock through health checks and access to clean water and feed, documenting losses and engaging with insurers and/or assistance programs, and developing a grazing recovery plan that protects rangeland health going into the next grazing season.
Cattle should not be allowed back into recently burned areas. Ashes, smoldering fencelines, hay piles, and pitlike hot spots can cause significant injury to hooves and soft tissues.
If producers evacuated before all livestock were accounted for, make sure neighbors or first responders know where animals may be. In addition to brands, temporary identification such as paint or chalk marks, can help reconnect animals with owners later.
Plan to evaluate livestock multiple times over the coming days and weeks. Burnrelated hoof damage, in particular, may take time to show up.
As you assess cattle, take time to examine the areas most vulnerable to heat and smoke damage:
- Hooves, udders, sheaths, and testicles for burns or swelling
- Eyes and muzzle for soot, abrasions, or ulceration
- Respiratory signs such as coughing or rapid breathing
On days when smoke drifts across the area, avoid working or exerting cattle unnecessarily. Respiratory irritation from smoke can worsen with handling.
Cows in late gestation and pairs may need extra monitoring. Postfire stress can weaken maternal behavior or reduce milk production. Burned or singed udders may prevent calves from nursing.
Consult your veterinarian early for burn treatment, pain management, antibiotics if needed, and guidance about which animals are likely to recover. In some cases, humane euthanasia may be the best choice. Severely injured animals may also be unable to move safely or may not be accepted at packing plants, so evaluate transport options carefully.
Source : unl.edu