How to Keep Livestock Safe as Arctic Air Moves Into North Louisiana

The National Weather Service in Shreveport is pretty sure that this weekend, things are going to get pretty "wintery" here in the Arklatex.  We're talking Arctic-ish.

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On Facebook, the NWS has warned that chances are steadily increasing for our area to see freezing rain or a "Wintry Mix" this weekend and that we might be in for a round of road closures and power outages.

While forecasting models are still a little sketchy on the severity of the upcoming winter storm, the NWS feels certain most of the area will see minor impacts at minimum.

Hopefully, with the advance warning of the incoming winter storm, you've spent some time preparing, but if not, there are a number of issues that require immediate attention in regards to your home, your plants and especially your livestock.

Red Cross Louisiana Lists the Following Cold Weather Tricks For Prepping

• Bring your pets inside. Make sure outdoor animals have shelter and nonfrozen water.
• Never heat your home with an oven or stove.
• Monitor local media for the latest news.
• To protect your pipes: Open cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate and let cold water drip from the faucet at a trickle.
• If using a space heater, keep it three feet from other objects, place it on a nonflammable surface and turn it off before going to bed.

What To Do Should You Lose Power In This Extremely Cold Weather

• Turn off and unplug everything to avoid power surges when power is restored.
• Leave one light on so you know when power is restored.
• Keep your fridge door closed as much as possible to preserve food.
• If you use a generator, place it outdoors in dry conditions away from windows or doors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use a generator inside.

Additionally, if you have livestock, pets or plants, Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, says you have some other issues requiring immediate attention.

Tips To Care For Livestock During The Extreme Cold

• Owners should check their livestock and look for signs of stress, illness, or injury.
• Pay close attention to the young and older animals as they are more susceptible to problems during frigid conditions.
• Provide plenty of hay, feed, energy supplements, and water.
• Be sure to check water troughs as they can ice over.
• If possible, make adequate shelter available. Even a wind-break will minimize exposure to cold winds.

Cold Weather Tips To Care For Companion Animals

• If possible, keep all companion animals indoors. If this is not an option, make sure there is a dry shelter available and have warm blankets for your pet.
• Provide adequate food and water. Monitor water bowls as they can freeze during cold weather.
• Consider a sweater for your short-haired dog.
• Outdoor cats searching for warmth will sometimes crawl underneath the hood of a vehicle. Bang on or open the hood of your car so any animal in there trying to stay warm can get out before you crank up that engine. Cats can be injured or even killed when the car is started