By Katie Ockert
Michigan weather can be downright unpredictable. At any moment we may face ice, severe thunderstorms, tornados, wildfires or flash floods. While human safety during these events must always come first, many livestock owners may be unsure of the best steps to take to protect their animals. Here are a few things livestock owners can do to prepare before severe weather strikes.
When a “watch” is issued, conditions are favorable for the development of a hazardous weather event, and livestock owners should take immediate steps to prepare. When a “warning” is issued, the event has been observed or is imminent in the warned area, and human safety becomes the top priority. Always follow National Weather Service guidance during warning conditions.
Regardless of the type of severe weather predicted, livestock owners should consider the following preparedness steps:
- Identification
- Permanent identification, such as ear tags for cattle and small ruminants, microchips, tattoos or brands can be invaluable. For horses that are not branded or microchipped, owners can braid temporary identification tags into manes or tails, and/or write their phone number on the side of the animals with a livestock marking pen or non-toxic paint. Written identification and medical records — including Coggins tests, vaccination histories, and current veterinary records — should be organized and easily accessible. Do not turn animals loose with halters or anything else that could become caught on debris or fencing.
- Animal care and medical supplies
- The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends developing a disaster plan, assembling an evacuation kit and creating an emergency contact list. These steps can greatly improve readiness and response for livestock and horse owners.
- Feed and water stores
- Maintain a three- to seven‑day supply of feed and water. After a disaster, recovery may be delayed due to power outages, downed trees, blocked roads or other disruptions that limit access to supplies. Michigan State University Extension outlines these strategies in this resource: “Managing livestock resources during natural disasters.”
Source : msu.edu