AUSTIN, TX \u2013The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) continues to work with local, state, federal, and non-governmental partners to address the severe winter weather effects on Texas livestock and poultry.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur hearts go out to all who are affected by the winter storms,\u201d said Dr. Andy Schwartz, TAHC Executive Director. \u201cWe are grateful for the support and resources our government and non-government partners are providing.\u201d<\/p>\n
Below please find animal specific resources that can help you recover from these winter storm events and guide you through the recovery process.<\/p>\n
Stray Livestock<\/span><\/strong> Animal Disposal<\/span><\/strong> Carcasses on private property, non-residential areas: Animal owners and operators are responsible for the proper disposal of their animals. To learn about common methods of non-diseased animal carcass disposal visit Disaster-Related Carcass Disposal Guide or visit the Texas Commission Environmental Quality\u2019s website at www.tceq.texas.gov<\/a>. Agriculture Indemnity and Assistance<\/span><\/strong> Animal Supplies and Donations<\/span><\/strong> Animal Shelters<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn extreme winter weather, fences can be covered by snow or damaged and livestock can be displaced. If you find stray livestock or down fences, contact your local sheriff\u2019s department. For animals in need of medical assistance (frostbite, distress, fatigue, lesions, etc.), contact a local veterinarian.<\/p>\n
\nWhen the extreme winter weather conditions transition to recovery efforts, Texans may face the challenge of animal disposal.<\/p>\n
\nAnimal Carcasses in Public Areas (including residential): Animal carcasses found in public areas or rights-of-way should be reported to the local county Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to be handled through the jurisdiction\u2019s debris management plan. You can find your county\u2019s EOC information at http:\/\/www.tdms.org\/county.aspx<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nThe U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has programs that provide assistance to rural communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses affected by the recent winter storms. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices are prepared with a variety of flexible programs and other assistance to residents and agricultural producers in impacted communities. To learn more, visit the USDA website or contact your local USDA Service Center directly.<\/p>\n
\nThe Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) helps agricultural producers locate hay supplies. If you need hay or would like to donate hay, visit the Hay Hotline website or call 512-787-9966<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\nAt this time, animal owners are advised to contact their local authorities (sheriff’s department, EOC, or call 2-1-1) to learn more about open animal shelters in their area. Companion animals are accepted at some warming centers, visit https:\/\/tdem.texas.gov\/warm\/<\/a> or call 2-1-1 to learn more.<\/p>\n