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Livestock Lightning Losses can be Considerable

Livestock lightning losses can be considerable in the season of thunderstorms. Invariably there are lightning strikes and some animals are killed or injured.

Prompt attention to these losses are important to determine an accurate diagnosis of the cause of death. Although lightning appears to be the cause, some diseases also cause sudden death.

Most insurance companies require an examination by a veterinarian before loss claims can be paid. A local veterinarian should be called immediately before any dead animals are moved and before decomposition begins. The veterinarian can frequently determine the cause of death, however, not all cases are distinctly defined. Singed hair lines from the top of the animal downward to the ground on one or more legs is usually positive evidence of lightning stroke. Other important factors that need to be included in the veterinary report include: weather history, number of animals killed, and where the damage occurred.

And in all cases, other causes of death such a infectious disease, poisoning from pasture plants, or chemical-caused deaths, must be considered.

Where lightning appears to be the cause of livestock losses, farmers and ranchers should call their local veterinarian as soon as possible, especially if the animals are insured or groups of animals are involved.