August 31, 2007, Newsletter Issue #131: Turning out the livestock

Tip of the Week

If you cannot shelter your animals or have large herds, it is better to turn them out into large areas. Animals have surprising abilities to survive storms or disasters if they must be turned out. Their natural survival instincts take over. But common sense on the part of their human keeper will see to the survival of these animals better than if they were just let go.

First, check the terrain of the area your animals will be left in. Is there high ground for them to flee to if the area floods? If not, before a disaster happens, using heavy equipment, build several large compact mounds of earth that will not wash away. These mounds will help the animals get out of deep water.

Second, is there a lean-to or shed to get under? If so, re-enforce this shelter by strengthening the poles and roof and making sure that it is sunk securely in the ground so it will not blow over.

Third, check the fences and make sure that they are in good repair. Livestock that survives a storm or disaster, can be lost due to downed fences.

Four, are there large trees that can blow over onto your livestock? If so, weed out the weak trees and re-enforce the strong ones. These will provide shelter from snow, wind and rain. But, on the other hand, they can conduct lightening and cause electrocution.

As soon as the disaster has passed check the livestock immediately to assess their condition and render care as needed.

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