Emergency Preparedness for Goat Owners
Emergencies are unpredictable, but with proper planning and preparation, goat owners can help ensure the safety and well-being of their animals.
Owning goats is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities, especially in times of emergencies. Disasters can strike at any moment, and being prepared can make a significant difference in the safety and well-being of your goats. Here's a guide to help goat owners prepare for emergencies.
Advanced Planning
Advanced planning can help minimize the loss of animal lives and health problems associated with disasters. Whether it's hurricanes, fires, hazardous material spills, or animal disease outbreaks, preparation is essential. Remember, while help may be available post-disaster, the primary responsibility for the animal welfare lies with the owner.
Health and Vaccination
Ensure your herd's health programs and vaccinations are up-to-date. Goats undergoing evacuation will face stress and potential commingling with other animals, leading to breached biosecurity. This makes increasing immunity against diseases imperative.
Animal Identification
It's critical to identify your goats, especially if they get evacuated and commingled or escape and are later captured. Use tags, tattoos, or electronic identification unique to each animal. Pictures or videos of the animals can also assist in identification later.
Health Papers and Documentation
If you're evacuating your animals, especially across state lines, ensure you have health papers provided by a veterinarian. Keep copies of herd records, proof of ownership, and registration papers in a safe place.
Evacuation Plans
Due to their relatively small size, mass evacuation of goats is feasible with proper planning. Partner with other farms for trucking and evacuation space. Ensure you have safe, efficient penning and loading facilities ready. If flooding or high winds are expected, leave the animals in open pastures instead of confining them in barns.
Coordinate with Local Agricultural Groups
Collaborate with local agricultural groups like Extension Services, USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Services, and Farm Service Agencies. Assign tasks like livestock hauling, feed and fuel distribution, and animal evacuation to specific individuals or groups in advance.
Emergency Food and Water Supply
In large-scale disasters, providing food and fresh water becomes a priority. Store an emergency supply of feed and water. Adult goats require 1-2 gallons of water per head per day. Ensure you have hand pumps or generators in case of electrical outages.
Health Concerns Post-Disaster
Animals standing in water for prolonged periods may develop skin infections and become susceptible to tetanus. Dehydration and digestive upsets can occur if animals consume water with high salinity. Ensure you have an emergency supply of medications and first aid supplies stored.
Equipment Needs
Prepare for post-disaster scenarios by ensuring you have access to equipment like tractors, forklifts, livestock trailers, and feed and water troughs. In cases of widespread flooding, airboats and rescuers on horseback might be needed to reach stranded livestock.
Conclusion
Emergencies are unpredictable, but with proper planning and preparation, goat owners can ensure the safety and well-being of their animals. Collaborate with local resources, stay informed, and always prioritize the health and safety of your herd.