Livestock shelters open in Alabama in preparation for Tropical Storm Isaias
State agriculture officials say evacuated animals can be housed at three sites, with veterinary inspection certificates waived during the storm.
In preparation for Tropical Storm Isaias, forecast to strengthen into a hurricane before making landfall Friday evening, October 9, along the northern Gulf Coast, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has contacted its partners to provide temporary shelters for evacuated livestock. Animals moving in response to Tropical Storm Isaias will be exempt from the requirement for a certificate of veterinary inspection.
These shelters are equipped only for livestock, not pets or companion animals such as dogs or cats. Contact the facility before traveling with livestock to confirm that it can accommodate the animals and to learn about its specific requirements. Livestock owners will not be charged to use the shelters, but facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Available shelters include:
Pike County Cattleman's Association
- 4100 U.S. Highway 231 South, Troy, AL 36081
- Contact: Dick Barnett, 334-670-1228
Houston County Farm Center
- 1701 E. Cottonwood Road, Dothan, AL 36301
- Contact: Tony Ellison, 334-793-4323, ext. 104
R.H. Kirkpatrick Agricultural Pavilion
- 2224 Alabama Highway 14 West, Autaugaville, AL 36003
- Contact: Lee Pittman, 334-850-7994
Livestock owners should be prepared to care for their animals while away during an evacuation. Bring the following items:
- A current list of all animals, including feeding, vaccination and testing records, and proof of ownership for each animal.
- Supplies for temporary identification, such as plastic neckbands and permanent markers, to label animals with the owner's name, address and telephone number.
- Handling equipment, such as halters, and appropriate tools for each kind of animal.
- Water, feed and buckets, along with tools and supplies needed for sanitation.
For questions or concerns about sheltering livestock during a hurricane evacuation, contact the department's emergency programs director, Taylor Ellis, at 334-240-7279 or [email protected].
