Texas A&M highlights wildfire planning for horses and livestock

Texas A&M’s Veterinary Emergency Team published new public-facing guidance on May 21, 2026, outlining how pet parents and producers can better protect horses and livestock from wildfires. In the article, clinical assistant professor Dr. Kyle Johnson emphasizes three priorities: creating defensible space around barns and pastures, having a written evacuation plan that includes transport and destination options, and making sure animals can be identified if they become separated during a fire. The guidance builds on Texas A&M’s broader disaster-preparedness messaging for large animals, including maintaining emergency kits, keeping veterinary records accessible, and planning for feed and water disruptions. (vetmed.tamu.edu)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the message is less about emergency response in the moment and more about preparedness before smoke and flames arrive. Wildfire exposure can cause ocular irritation, coughing, nasal discharge, increased respiratory effort, and loss of access to safe forage, while evacuation failures can quickly become animal welfare and identification problems. Texas A&M’s recommendations align with other veterinary and emergency sources that advise limiting smoke exposure, monitoring horses for respiratory compromise, and using permanent or temporary ID methods so displaced animals can be reunited more efficiently. (vetmed.tamu.edu)

What to watch: As wildfire seasons lengthen, expect more veterinary outreach to focus on pre-event planning, smoke-related triage guidance, and post-fire recovery protocols for large animals. (vetmed.tamu.edu)