July 22, 2011

Iowa's cattle die from heat wave

Approximately 100 cattle were killed by heat-related issues in far northern Iowa's Winneshiek County.

The media reported that the cattle operation sits only a few feet from the state line with Minnesota. Two Minnesota fire departments responded to calls for aid and helped save most of the operation's livestock.

Veterinarians said livestock need to be kept out of the sun and have plenty of water in order to survive the deadly combination of extreme heat and humidity. Spraying water on them can help, too.

Extreme heat advisories were posted for Iowa for six days in a row.

According to the media, a farmer near Cascade reported that more than 20 cows died there Tuesday (Jul 19).

Heat-related livestock deaths have been reported in several states.