Preparing for a Supersized El Niño: Insights for Pet and Livestock Owners

Introduction to El Niño

Pet owners should start preparing for the anticipated ‘supersized’ El Niño expected to impact the country this fall and winter. Those caring for livestock will face unique challenges with wet and wintry weather.

The forecast predicts that El Niño could reach peak strength toward the end of the year, with a 75% chance it will reach historic levels during the October-to-December period. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres recently stated the science is clear: the planet is in uncharted waters, and those waters are warming.

El Niño results from unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific, affecting atmospheric patterns globally. In the U.S., El Niño winters are wetter in the southern regions, including California, and warmer and drier in the northern areas. Varying conditions from one El Niño to another mean animal owners must prepare for specific regional risks.

Preparing Livestock for El Niño

Caring for cattle during a wet and cold winter requires different measures compared to dogs or cats. Cody Deluisio, herd manager at Deluisio Angus in Pennsylvania, emphasizes the importance of food in keeping cattle warm. He explains cattle rely on digesting roughage to power their internal heater. Wet coats from freezing rain can compromise their insulation.

Owners need to provide extra feed and protection from elements. Deluisio Angus plans to keep 30% more hay available to tackle winter challenges. Managing cattle during El Niño involves offering food and an environment that keeps them warm and dry, rather than bringing them indoors.

Dealing with Mud and Wind

Mud poses significant issues for livestock during rain. Wet grounds quickly turn into mud where cattle may slip, risking injury or developing hoof rot. Owners should manage high-traffic areas like gates, feeding spots, and water sources using mats, concrete, or regular cleaning. Effective drainage and pasture management are crucial for preventing prolonged wet conditions that hinder cleanliness.

Wind protection is also vital. Instead of confining cattle in heated barns, which could lead to respiratory issues due to poor ventilation, Deluisio uses three-sided sheds offering respite from wind and rain. Windbreaks are crucial during cold, wet, and windy situations, providing noticeable warmth compared to exposure.

The focus lies not on artificial heat but on enabling cattle to maintain body temperature through sufficient food and environment management.

Preparations for Household Pets

Preparing dogs and cats is generally simpler, but owners should preemptively act before extreme weather hits. Ali Smith, a canine behavior consultant, recommends different measures based on anticipated regional risks.

In areas expecting heavy rain, setting up indoor potty spaces and ensuring dogs can use them is advisable. Regions susceptible to flooding or landslides call for a structured emergency plan. Owners need safe evacuation routes and sufficient emergency supplies, including food, water, and prescriptions. Accessible identification and veterinary records are essential for evacuation readiness.

Moreover, owners should facilitate their cats becoming comfortable in carriers, especially for emergency situations, while dogs must have secure leashes and harnesses available. Standing or floodwater can further endanger pets with contaminants like sewage, chemicals, or pollutants.

Identifying pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or boarding facilities beforehand helps mitigate panic during emergencies.

Understanding that El Niño’s exact effects will vary by location is vital. The climate pattern doesn’t guarantee severe weather for every community, yet preparing animals for potential conditions can ease managing an unpredictable winter.

Contact Newsweek editors for this story: Rebecca Flood and Anthony Murray.