Photo: Supplied
Veld fires can affect large areas and hundreds or thousands of livestock can be injured or killed. In the aftermath, quick, appropriate and sensible action is needed to limit losses and minimise animal suffering.
For livestock, the prognosis depends on the severity of the burns and other injuries, and it is essential to assess affected animals in a systematic way. Based on investigations undertaken in Australia, animals should be categorised into three groups.
Mildly affected animals
These animals breathe easily, with minimal or no coughing. They also walk comfortably and can eat and drink normally.
Hair or wool may be scorched and the skin only lightly scalded (first-degree burns) over limited areas of the body. These superficial burns may be treated and, provided that animals are given good care, shelter, food, and water, their prognosis is very good.
Moderately affected animals
These animals may display laboured breathing and coughing, but are still able to walk, stand, eat, and drink. They may have more severe (second-degree) burns over more extensive areas and reactive subcutaneous oedema. Skin on the legs could be mildly affected. Hooves may show some sloughing.
If these animals are properly treated and cared for until they are well on the road to full recovery, their prognosis is good. Damage to the teat openings can later result in the inability to suckle calves, lambs, or kids.
Severely affected animals
This group will usually exhibit severe breathing difficulties and coughing due to smoke inhalation. Additionally, or in some cases instead, they may be unable to walk, eat, or drink.
There may be severe (third-degree) burns over extensive areas; burns on the lower legs are a particularly bad sign. Since the prognosis in these cases is poor, even with treatment, it is rational and humane in many cases to perform euthanasia to end their suffering.
Treatment
Treatments used will depend on the recommendations of veterinarians, but the following are useful as a guideline:
- For mild to moderate burns, consider using topical emollients, creams, wound remedies, or antiseptics. Some may have to be used off-label.
- For severe burns in very valuable animals, registered products are indicated.
- Systemic antibiotics are strongly recommended in all cases where the lungs may be compromised or risk of secondary infection is a concern. This can save many lives.
- Analgesics should always be used wherever possible because of the severe pain that results from burns.
Despite a poor prognosis, some animals can recover, provided that proper care and treatments are given.
Emergency slaughter
Badly injured and unsuitable animals should never be sent to abattoirs, as this will lead to further unnecessary suffering and rejection at the abattoir.
Consult your nearest abattoir regarding the suitability of livestock for emergency slaughter beforehand.
Email Corine Steyn at [email protected], phone her on 012 349 1102, or visit rpo.co.za.
