Guidelines for Responses to Livestock Emergencies

For all emergencies involving livestock, the following steps can be used as a guideline for the first person at the scene to assist in response. Remember to never risk your life to save those of livestock. Always ensure personal safety.

1. Call 9-1-1 (if required). The first person to discover the emergency must call 9-1-1 if first responders are required. First responders may be required in emergency scenarios that put livestock or humans in immediate danger including wildfires, structure fires, traffic accidents, etc. Remember to share key information with the dispatcher if you are able, including type of emergency, number of livestock, species, status (i.e. loose, injured, deceased, etc.) and where livestock are located (i.e. in a livestock transport trailer, running loose, in a structure, etc.).
2. Secure the scene (if required). If possible, some steps can be taken to safely secure the scene prior to first responders arriving or under their direction. See details below in the specific emergency area.
3. Call a local veterinarian (if required). In emergencies, the welfare of livestock may be compromised. Call a local veterinarian to determine if livestock require treatment or must be humanely euthanized. If the local veterinarian is unknown or unavailable, a directory of Saskatchewan veterinary professionals is available.
4. Wait for first responders to arrive (if required).
5. Follow all the directions from first responders (if required).