BY ADDIE P
York County SC
When severe weather is on the way it is important to have a plan to protect not only your family but also your animals. Whether you’re caring for pets, livestock or small farm animals like chickens and quail, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure they are safe and protected.
Stay updated on the weather and prepare as early as possible if severe conditions are predicted. This extra time can make or break having time for securing enclosures, moving animals to safer areas and gathering supplies.
By planning ahead and staying calm, you can make sure your animals are as safe and comfortable as possible during severe weather.
In York County pets are required to have an enclosed shelter that keeps them dry and insulation in the form of straw or shavings. Straw is inexpensive and usually found at local feed or garden stores.
For livestock, make sure to provide appropriate shelter from cold temperatures, wind and rain, snow or ice. Keep in mind that different animals have different care needs and you should plan for each animal individually. Colder temperatures cause animals to use more calories and you should plan to work with your veterinarian to develop a feeding plan that meets each of your animal’s needs.
Always ensure that all animals have access to drinking water that is clean and unfrozen.
A good thing to have on hand at all times but especially during severe weather is an animal-specific first aid kit.
Include things like an emergency contact card including the phone numbers for your regular veterinary clinic, the closest emergency veterinary hospital and the Pet Poison Helpline® (1-855-764-7661).
Vet wrap, gauze, tape, scissors, tweezers and gloves for wound care as well as general supplies like a pet thermometer, eye wash, nail trimmers and styptic powder which can be used to stop minor bleeding are helpful.
A 4-H Golden Comet pullet forages in the snow Jan. 22 following the recent snowstorm in York County. Evie Martell
The York County Current 