Is it common for horse owners to leave their horses behind during a cyclone?
I have a question for anyone knowledgeable about this situation. As Cyclone Alfred approaches SEQ, I’ve noticed that some horse owners are leaving their animals on their properties while they evacuate. Our area isn’t prone to flash flooding, but we are expecting heavy winds and rain, and there’s a good chance we’ll be cut off by flooded roads.
One particular owner has three horses but lacks proper shelter for them, and it seems they have left. Is it typical for horse owners to leave their horses without any stable or shelter during such severe weather?
It’s difficult to say what’s “normal” when it comes to individual decisions made by horse owners during extreme weather events like cyclones. Many responsible horse owners will prioritize their animals’ safety and well-being, often ensuring they have adequate shelter, food, and access to water. However, there can be various reasons why some may choose to leave their horses behind:
Trust in the Horses’ Resilience: Some owners may believe that their horses can handle the situation, as horses are generally hardy animals.
Lack of Alternatives: In cases where owners have no safe place to evacuate to, they might feel there’s no choice but to leave the horses behind.
Misjudgment of Risk: Not all owners may fully understand the potential dangers posed by severe weather, leading them to underestimate the situation.
Emergency Preparedness: Some owners may not have had the opportunity to prepare adequately, whether due to lack of information or resources.
Leaving horses behind without shelter can be risky, especially during severe weather that may lead to downed fences, injury from debris, or other dangers. It’s always best to prepare in advance and have a plan in place for the safety of both animals and owners during such events. If you’re concerned about the horses you mentioned, it might be worth reaching out to local animal welfare organizations or authorities for advice or assistance.