April 3, 2008

Slow down, call someone when livestock is in the road

ATKINS—Why did the cow cross the road?

Because the grass is always greener on the other side.

According to Jason Pratt, a Smyth County cattle producer, that’s exactly why his cows occasionally have escaped his fenced pastures and become road hazards for drivers.

“The most common way my cows get out is through an open gate or a broken fence,” he said. “They always think the grass is greener on the other side of the road.”

Though farmers try their best to make sure gates are closed and fences are sound, livestock in the road is not an uncommon sight in rural areas.

So what do you do if you come across animals in the road? Jimmy Maass, safety coordinator for Virginia Farm Bureau, suggests the following:

Slow down, and pass with caution. Some animals that are out of their pen are already scared and could act erratically.

Do not attempt to push the animal or put it back into the pasture or pen. The animal could come after you, run back into traffic or run farther away.

Try to alert other drivers so they can avoid the animal.

If the animal appears injured, do not go near it. An injured animal will try to protect itself and could injure you.

Follow instructions of the farmer or law enforcement on site.

Pratt said the most helpful thing drivers can do is notify the farmer or local law enforcement if they encounter loose livestock.

“If you don’t know the farmer personally, calling the sheriff helps get the situation under control the quickest,” Maass said. “If you’re not familiar with livestock, don’t get out of the car. Stop, and let someone know immediately.”

Contact Pratt at 276-759-6147 or Maass at 804-290-1379.