Animal welfare in severe weather

That is the message to livestock keepers from the Council's Animal Health Inspectors during this freezing spell. 

During periods of severe weather the Animal Health Inspectors will monitor the situation closely and they play an important role assisting livestock keepers and pet owners protect the welfare of their animals.

Livestock keepers during periods of bad weather should already be working to ensure livestock are protected from the severe weather and that food and water are available.  Livestock keepers are advised to identify and source feed and water for their animals, for example by co-operating with their neighbours if supplies run short or access is difficult.

It is important to ensure that where animals are kept outside, drinking water troughs etc. are kept free of ice and that if pipes and other water supply fittings are blocked water is taken to the animals regularly.

If anyone is facing serious difficulties in sourcing supplies to protect the welfare of their animals, should contact one of the organisations listed who will try and identify solutions.

Rotherham Borough Council has a legal duty in relation to animal health and welfare on farms, at markets and in transport, and can provide further advice and support. In an emergency the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals  (RSPCA) will also provide help and advice.

Advice to pet and horse owners

Where pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, are normally kept outside in hutches during mild winters, owners should consider moving them into garages and sheds to provide additional thermal insulation.  Where cages cannot be moved additional protection or insulation should be provided wherever possible. It is also important to ensure a supply of drinking water.  Ice should be cleared from drinking water containers and the spouts defrosted regularly.

As with farmed livestock, horses and ponies usually kept outside during the winter should have access to shelter at all times and a regular provision of feed and water.  Where such provision is inadequate, owners should consider moving the animals and/or permanently stabling in the interim period.  Water supplies for all horses and ponies should be checked regularly and alternatives sources supplied if mains failure occurs.  In an emergency you should contact the RSPCA for help and advice.

Live animal transport

Transporters are required by law not to transport animals in a way that is likely to cause injury or undue suffering. So in the current conditions transporters must check their intended route is safe and clear before any journey commences.  If journeys do commence then drivers should have back up plans to care for the animals in case any problems occur.

During transport, bedding must be supplied for calves less than 6 months, foals under 4 months, piglets under 10 kgs and lambs under 20 kgs. This bedding must guarantee the animals comfort in the prevailing weather conditions. However, during freezing weather conditions, bedding is likely to be appropriate for older / heavier animals too.  For journeys over eight hours, ventilation systems on vehicles must be capable of maintaining the temperature in the animal compartment above 0 °C.

Sources of help and advice:

• The RSPCA: 0300 1234 999
• The Animal Health Agency: 0113 2300100
• The National Farmers Union: 0870 08458458
• Animal Health Inspector: 01709 823177