When a tornado is approaching, we all want to make sure that our animals, especially our horses, are safe. But what do you do if the tornado is coming and you can’t get your horses to safety? Do you just leave them in the barn or should you let them go? This is a difficult decision to make but it is important to understand why you should let horses go in a tornado.
I. The Nature of Tornadoes
A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that is in contact with both the surface of the earth and a cumulonimbus cloud. It is a natural phenomenon that can cause devastating damage and destruction. Tornadoes can vary in strength and size and can occur anywhere in the world where there is a thunderstorm.
II. The Risk of Staying in a Barn During a Tornado
When a tornado is approaching, the most common instinct is to get your horses to safety as quickly as possible. However, in some circumstances, this may not be possible. It is important to understand the risks of staying in a barn during a tornado.
Barns are not designed to withstand the high winds and debris that a tornado can produce. The walls and roof can be damaged or even destroyed, leaving the horses exposed to the elements. If the barn collapses, the horses may be injured or even killed. Additionally, if the barn is not properly secured, the horses may be able to escape and be at risk of being injured or killed by the tornado itself.
III. The Benefits of Letting Horses Go During a Tornado
Letting horses go during a tornado can be a difficult decision to make, but it may be the best option for their safety. Horses have an innate sense of self preservation and will instinctively run away from danger. They are also capable of outrunning a tornado and can move quickly in an effort to reach safety.
In some cases, letting the horses go may be the only viable option if the tornado is approaching quickly and there is no time to get them to safety. By letting them go, you are giving them the chance to find safety on their own.
IV. Tips for Letting Horses Go During a Tornado
If you decide to let your horses go during a tornado, there are a few things that you can do to ensure their safety. First, make sure that the horses are wearing their halters with identification tags. This will make it easier for them to be identified and returned to you if they are found.
Second, open the gate and let the horses go. The horses will instinctively run away from the tornado, so it is important to give them a clear path to safety. Make sure that there are no obstacles in their way and that the gate is opened wide enough for them to escape.
Third, do not try to chase after the horses. The horses will be scared and may try to run away from you. Chasing after them may cause them to become more scared and could put them in danger. Instead, let them find their own way to safety.
V. The Aftermath of Letting Horses Go During a Tornado
After the tornado has passed, it is important to assess the situation and look for any signs of your horses. If you are able to locate them, then it is a good idea to take them to a veterinarian to make sure that they are not injured. It is also important to make sure that their identification tags are still on and that they are wearing the correct halters.
VI. What to Do if the Horses Are Not Found
If your horses are not found after the tornado has passed, then it is important to remain vigilant. Check with your local animal shelters and vet clinics to see if any horses have been brought in. You can also put up flyers in your area and post information on social media to let people know that you are looking for your horses.
VII. What to Do if the Horses Are Found
If your horses are found after the tornado, then it is important to make sure that they are in good health. It is also important to make sure that they are wearing their identification tags and that they are wearing the correct halters. If they are not, then it may be a good idea to contact a local veterinarian to make sure that they are not injured or traumatized.
VIII. Tips for Keeping Horses Safe During a Tornado
The best way to keep your horses safe during a tornado is to be prepared. Make sure that your horses have their halters and identification tags on at all times. Make sure that the barn is secure and that the horses have plenty of room to move around in case they need to escape.
It is also important to have a plan in place for what to do if a tornado is approaching. Practice getting your horses to safety in a timely manner and be prepared to let them go if necessary.
IX. Conclusion
Letting horses go in a tornado can be a difficult decision to make, but it is important to understand why it may be necessary. Tornadoes can cause devastating damage and destruction and staying in a barn during a tornado can put the horses at risk. By letting the horses go, you are giving them the chance to find safety on their own.