Vet Xpress is a mobile Veterinary service covering the Gold Coast. We offer consultations for large and small animals. Consultations are via appointment only.
03/03/2025
Great information and tips from our friends at Wicks Equine
We hope all of our clients and patients stay safe this week with the predicted weather ๐ช๏ธ
๐ช๏ธ Cyclone WARNING SEQ/NSW: How to Keep Your Horse Safe ๐ช๏ธ
Hereโs a guide and a few suggestions, as a good plan can make all the difference when wild weather hits. what you can do to prepare and protect your horses before, during, and after a cyclone.
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Before the Cyclone: Preparation is Key
* Identify the safest paddock โ Choose an area thatโs high and free from large trees, powerlines, or loose debris. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
* Secure feed and water โ Store extra feed in waterproof containers and fill water troughs and tanks ahead of time.
* Remove rugs and halters โ Rugs can become waterlogged, get caught on fences, or restrict movement. Halters can also become a hazard if caught in debris or fences, especially in rising floodwaters.
* Tag your horse โ Tag horses mane, Use a livestock grease marker to write your phone number on their coat, in case fences come down if you don't have of these options some use nail polish on the hoof.
* Check fences โ Make sure fences are secure but easy for a horse to see if they need to navigate in strong winds or heavy rain.
* Prepare a cyclone kit โ Include first aid supplies for horses and humans, extra halters and lead ropes, and emergency contact numbers (vet, neighbours, local council).
* Plan for evacuation โ If youโre in a flood zone, know where you can safely move your horse ahead of time.
๐ฌ๏ธ During the Cyclone: Safety First
* Shelter vs Open Space? โ In severe winds, open paddocks are often safer than small stables or sheds that could collapse. Ideally, choose a large paddock with natural shelter like thick trees (but not near gum trees or tall palms).
* Minimise flying objects โ Remove loose items like buckets, jumps, and feed bins that could become dangerous projectiles.
๐งน After the Cyclone: Assess and Support
* Check fences and property โ Walk the property carefully for broken fences, debris, or contaminated water.
* Watch for injuries โ Check your horse for cuts, swelling, or signs of stress.
* Provide clean water and safe feed โ Floodwaters can contaminate drinking water and spoil feed, so ensure fresh supplies are available.
๐ The best plan is made before the weather arrives โ Cyclones can change quickly, so having a clear strategy gives you and your horse the best chance of staying safe.
Stay safe everyone!
Please note: These are general suggestions only. Every property, horse, and situation is different, so itโs important to make decisions based on your specific circumstances.
