Blizzards and Livestock

Earlier this month ranchers in southeast Colorado faced a tough challenge — a huge blizzard that stranded cattle and other livestock. Several weeks later, the ranchers are still seeking and receiving aid, and thousands of cattle and other animals were lost. Colorado State University’s Cooperative Extension has published a series of fact sheets dealing with livestock issues, and two of the fact sheets are especially pertinent regarding the blizzard situation: Caring for Livestock During Disaster, which specifically addresses snow and ice storms, among other types of disasters; and Caring for Livestock After Disaster, which describes not only what ranchers should do, but also gives tips for the best way to treat and handle animals that have just been through emotionally traumatic experiences.