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The leading causes of death in large animals during or following hurricanes are: collapsed barns, dehydration leading to kidney failure, electrocution from power lines strung over drainage ditches where animals sought refuge and roadway accidents involving animals wandering outside enclosures. Barbed wire entanglement adds to the list of life-threatening injuries.

If you plan to evacuate animals by trailer, be on the road at least 72 hours before the storm is due to hit. Heavy traffic and high winds must be avoided. Have proper papers, health certificates, and vaccination and test records with you.

The safest place for large animals to weather a storm is in a large pasture with both low areas that provide shelter during a storm and higher areas that will not flood after the storm. Close barn and/or stall doors. Open all interior pasture gates. Put ID on all animals and turn large animals out! They may suffer debris injuries but their chance of survival is better than inside a barn.

Maintain a box with halters, leads, tape, rope, tarps, plastic and fly spray. Store in a secure place. Keep a supply of plastic neck bands with permanent ID markings. Put metal ID plates on halters. Halter all horses before the storm. Shut off main electrical breakers and close gas and water valves.

Store a two-week supply of feed and medical supplies. Medications and bandages should be kept inside the home and in waterproof containers. Tie down vehicles, livestock trailers, etc., in the middle of the largest open areas away from trees.