Four Livestock Shelters Open in Alabama in Preparation for Hurricane Irma

With expectations of Hurricane Irma making landfall in south Florida this weekend, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) has been in contact with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES), Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA),  Alabama Horse Council and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services to confirm temporary sheltering facilities for evacuated livestock including horses and cattle. “Hurricane Irma, upgraded to a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph, has the capability of causing catastrophic damage. We stand ready to assist our neighbors in Florida, by providing a place for those who need shelter for their livestock,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan.

In preparation for this storm, Alabama’s State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier has been in contact with Florida’s State Veterinarian, Dr. Michael Short, in planning for the potential evacuation of certain livestock and animals. Animals moving in response to evacuation orders will be exempt from a certificate of veterinary inspection. There are four sheltering facilities that are equipped to accommodate these animals at this time. If these facilities reach maximum capacity or if additional sheltering facilities become available, updates will be posted at www.agi.alabama.gov. These sheltering facilities are only equipped to shelter livestock, not pets or companion animals such as dogs or cats. Please contact the facility to confirm that space is available prior to your arrival.

Available shelters include:

Covington Center Arena
24000 AL-55
Andalusia, AL 36420
Contact: Bo Fuqua
334-504-2717
http://www.mcdiamond.com/gifts/steelcutout/al/cov/coving.htm

Garrett Coliseum
1555 Federal Dr
Montgomery, AL 36107
Contact: Randy Stephenson
334-356-6866
www.thegarrettcoliseum.com

Houston County Farm Center
1701 E Cottonwood Rd
Dothan, AL 36301
Contact: Mickey Sego
334-792-5730
http://www.houstoncounty.org/Farm-Center

5 County Complex
1055 E Mckinnon St
New Brockton, AL 36351
Contact: Gavin Mauldin
334-894-5596

When evacuating, it is important for livestock owners to be prepared to care for their animals while they are away. Please be sure to bring the following items with you:

1. Current list of all animals, including their records of feeding, vaccinations, and tests. Make sure that you have proof of ownership for all animals.
2. Supplies for temporary identification of your animals, such as plastic neckbands and permanent markers to label your animals with your name, address, and telephone number.
3. Handling equipment such as halters and appropriate tools for each kind of animal.
4. Water, feed, and buckets. Tools and supplies needed for sanitation.

For question or concerns about sheltering livestock during a hurricane evacuation, contact ADAI Emergency Programs at 334-240-7278 or email ben.mullins@agi.alabama.gov.