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Include livestock in your disaster emergency planThe leading causes of death in large animals during disasters are collapsed barns, kidney failure due to dehydration, electrocution from downed power lines and fencing failures.
If you have horses or other livestock at your home or ranch, include them in your disaster emergency plan with these potential hazards in mind. Begin by determining the best place for animal confinement in case of a disaster. Find alternate water sources for the animals should power be lost, leaving pumps inoperable. Or, keep a hand pump on hand for emergencies. You should have a minimum of three days feed and water.
Decide where to take animals if evacuation is necessary. Contact fairgrounds, other producers, and stockyards about their policies and ability to take livestock temporarily in an emergency. Have several sites in mind. Familiarize yourself with several evacuation routes to your destination.
Photograph, identify and inventory your animals. Permanent identification, such as brands, tattoos, eartags or microchips are best. Temporary identification, such as tags on halters, livestock markers, paint, and duct tape with permanent writing will also work. Include your name and phone number. Keep identification information with you to verify ownership.
Make sure your animals have current vaccinations. Keep their medical histories and record special dosing instructions and dietary requirements.
Keep trailers and vans well-maintained, full of gas and ready to move at all times. Be sure your animals will load. If you don’t have your own vehicles, make arrangements with local haulers or neighbors before disaster strikes.
After the disaster, check pastures and fences for sharp objects that could injure livestock. Be aware of downed power lines, fallen trees and debris.
If you find someone else’s animal, call the County Office of Emergency Services or any emergency phone numbers made available after a disaster. Always use caution when approaching and handling strange or frightened horses or livestock.
A message from the University of California Cooperative Extension and the California Office of Emergency Services. |