DROUGHTS AND LIVESTOCK (Approved 19 Feb 2016)
Droughts are a seasonal occurrence in our Region and are predicted to become more intense in Southern Africa. The years when droughts are likely to occur are not really predictable far in advance. Livestock farmers should factor into
their management plan in advance appropriate action/s they plan to institute in the event of a drought. Livestock farmers remain accountable for the welfare of their animals at all times and the animals should not bear the brunt
of poor planning. It is totally unacceptable for livestock to starve to death which is cruel, slow, and totally avoidable.
There are three options that can be taken when faced with a prolonged drought: to feed, to sell or to slaughter. The time to act is immediately when confronted with the realisation that things are not going to improve in the short term. Starvation (doing nothing) must be avoided at all costs.