As a rainy summer continues, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers tips on how ranchers can care for livestock when flooding occurs.
After flooding, Disaster Assessment and Recovery (DAR) program director Monty Dozier says to be mindful of contaminated food or water, damaged fences or gates, unstable ground and sick or displaced animals. It is also important to move potentially dangerous objects to a safe place.
“It protects farm workers and machinery from being injured or damaged when mowing pastures that have grown over and hidden these objects,” Dozier said.
If an animal is injured, provide the care that you can and contact a vet if necessary. Also check for illnesses, such as pneumonia and provide access to food until pastures are ready for grazing.
“It is best to move them out of flooded areas and into dry or covered areas, if possible, then check them for injury and render any necessary first aid as able until a veterinarian can be found,” DAR South Region Chief Bryan Davis said.
In the long-term, keep a lookout for foot rot and biting bugs that can show up after extended wet conditions. Emergency planning is recommended to help prevent losses.
“It’s important to make sure all livestock vaccinations are current and to apply insect repellents to protect livestock from what will likely be increased mosquito and fly populations,” Davis said.
Davis also said it is important to take inventory and document any losses and quickly repair any damages. There are also various resources available where one can report losses and receive assistance if eligible.