Cairns animals weather warning.

Cairns animal owners need to prepare now for severe weather expected over Xmas.  Outdoor animals like horses and livestock should be given shelter if possible.

Pet owners may need contingency plans in place if flooding or heavy winds force evacuation or cause pets to run away.

Ensure your pets are microchipped and wear a collar with their name (or a brand for cattle and horses).

Dallas McMillan
Cairns Veterinary Clinic 

Read the best Cairns Vet advice and Cairns Pet news on the web.

 

Horse owners prepare for worst, Queensland warns

December 23, 2010

Coping with equine emergencies  

Owners of horses and livestock in Queensland need to be ready for weather emergencies, state officials have warned, as heavy rain threatens for Christmas.

With flooding already a problem for many Queenslanders this summer, and more on the way, Biosecurity Queensland is urging livestock and pet owners to have contingency plans in place.

Animal biosecurity and welfare project leader Warren Lehmann said heavy rain was expected along the coast in the coming days from Cairns down to Gladstone and also in the south east of the state.

"Central Queensland and the Dalby area have recently experienced heavy rain and flooding, and it looks like there is more on the way over the Christmas weekend," he said.

"Owners of horses and livestock need to be ready in the event that they have to take urgent action.

"People need to be extra vigilant when handling their animals at this time as they can become jittery before a storm and are more easily upset and spooked."

Tips for livestock owners in preparation for a severe weather event:

o If there is time, move animals to safer grounds before any high winds set in.

o Ensure livestock bears some form of identification, such as a brand, so they can be identified and returned should they become displaced.

o Ensure that stock registers are up to date and kept in a safe place.

o Move stock to a safe area before leaving your property for any length of time. Check with your local council and other relevant agencies about emergency animal shelters and yards.

Lehmann said if a cyclone or severe storm was approaching, animals should be moved under solid cover if possible.

"Secure any loose objects on the farm as they can become flying missiles in high winds, so ensure the area is clear of clutter, particularly where animals are kept," he said.

"In extreme circumstances on farms, you may have to consider opening gates or cutting fences so stock can escape danger and be collected later.

"In the event of a flood, either move your horses and livestock to high ground or ensure they have easy access to high ground.

"Producers are advised to mark gates and water locations on maps of their properties if someone has to move stock for them."

Lehmann said pets should also be included in household or farm emergency plans.

"Ensure your pets are properly identified by name tags and keep emergency phone numbers handy for your vet, local animal welfare agency and pet information and advisory services," he said.

"Plan to have enough food, water and medical needs for your pets. It may be safer to leave your pet at home in a safe place than to take it with you. Remember, most evacuation centres don't take pets so plan to leave them at home."