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Cattle Care Checklist: Before and After the Storm

Sep 08, 2020

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By torymoore

Before the storm

Preparing the pasture

Secure loose objects or remove them from pastures.
If possible, avoid placing cattle in pastures with electric fence, barbed wire or power lines. For operations that rely on electric fencing, have a generator ready to keep the fence hot or move animals to interior pastures so they have multiple fences to help keep them in.
Move animals to higher ground before a storm to keep them away from floods. Livestock with space to roam can usually weather the storm well and will move to high ground if they have access.
If safe, move cattle to a pasture with a pond so well-filled water troughs are not the only source of water.
Block narrow passageways where animals could crowd and then be unable to turn around. Animals in a narrow dead end can be dangerous not only to themselves but also to the areas in which they are crowded.

Feed and water supply

Stock up on water. Thirsty cattle are known to break out of fencing to get to water.
Line trash cans with plastic bags or use rain barrels to store water before the storm.
Stock up on extra feed and hay before the storm to prepare for potential transportation or supply issues.
Ensure you have enough food to last at least 72 hours post-storm, but a week or two-week supply is best.
Keep feed in a safe, dry place that will not be impacted during the storm.

First aid kit and health

Gather items for a first aid kit that includes halters and ropes, a flashlight with extra batteries, Chlorhexidine or Betadine solution, bandage materials, duct tape, gloves and scissors.
Make sure cattle are up to date on all vaccinations in case you need to evacuate and have vet records handy.
Develop a list of current contact information that includes your veterinarian, neighbors, USDA Farm Service Agency Office, insurance provider, utility company and your county Extension office.

Preparing equipment

Check tires and make sure trailers and equipment are in good working condition.
Park tractors and equipment away from trees and on high ground.
Ensure chainsaws are in good working order and ready to handle fallen trees after the storm.
Top off gas tanks in case you need extra fuel after the storm.
Stock up on fence repair materials such as wire, posts and staples.

After the storm

Beware of downed power lines! Treat them as if they are charged. If you encounter a downed power line while driving, stay in your vehicle and contact emergency personnel or the utility company.

Check animal condition

Once the storm has passed, check animals for injury or illness.
If cattle are missing, contact your local animal control office.

Feed and water

Ensure livestock have access to food and water.
If you rely on well water, keep potential contamination issues in mind when you are refilling water troughs.
Ensure feed and hay have not been soiled and is dry and free of mold.

Check pastures

Make sure flooding has receded before reintroducing cattle to low-lying areas.
Check fence lines and the rest of the pasture for debris or any other damage that could cause injury.

Record damages

Document any damage to trucks, trailers, barns or other insured structures or equipment.
Report major damage to the local USDA Farm Service Agency Office within 15 days of the storm to be eligible for federal disaster aid.

Source : ufl.edu