From staff reports STILLWATER – Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Beef Cattle Specialist and doctor of veterinary medicine Rosslyn Biggs recently outlined the effects of natural disaster responses.
Biggs said producers can learn a lot from the recent Oklahoma/Texas wildfires and use that knowledge to prepare for the future, adding that producers should focus on animal welfare, recordkeeping and human health.
While ranchers and veterinarians generally prioritize animal welfare, it is critical when considering those injured in disasters to evaluate of the injured animal’s health by a veterinarian is essential to determining if it should undergo treatment, or if salvaging the animal is the best option.
Recordkeeping feels like a dull or unnecessary task. However, documentation is even more essential, as it allows producers to claim disaster relief funds from governmental agencies when available.
It is also important to consider the mental and physical well-being of producers during and after catastrophic events. Many producers place their own health and safety at risk for their animals. Mental fatigue and stress can also develop even in those that are seemingly the strongest. Continual exposure to grief and loss can also impact those helping with the response. It is important to support those needing health care by connecting with them and supporting the need for medical interventions.