This is particularly the case with the possibility of heavy rain in many parts of Victoria over the coming weekend.

With many waterways already running and widespread rains forecast across Victoria in coming days, the Department of Primary Industries is warning farmers to have their flood plans in place.

DPI animal health manager Tony Britt said this involved having stock on higher ground that was accessible and had adequate supplies of both food and shelter.

“While most landholders are well versed on their fire plans, it has been some time since they have had to contemplate the prospect of being too wet,” Dr Britt said.

“But with more widespread rain forecast, farmers need to be ready for the impact this could have on their paddocks and livestock health.”

Dr Britt said the first thing that farmers had to do was identify high ground that was suitable for their stock, and make sure it was accessible if the wet conditions continued for some time.

For dairy farmers, accessibility is also important so they can continue taking cows to the dairy for milking.

“This area must also be well serviced by either pasture or hay supplies and some stock shelter to prevent exposure,” Dr Britt said.

“If you are moving pregnant livestock, try to do it slowly and keep the stress to a minimum. Joined females also need good feed and protection in the new paddock.”

Dr Britt said udders on lactating animals should be out of the water and mud as much as possible.

“Livestock producers should also try to avoid any stock standing in water so that you minimise the risk of foot problems,” he said.

“Dairy farmers in southern regions are already finding lameness issues as rain washes away tracks, leaving pebbles exposed which can damage hooves. Make sure you listen to weather forecasts and any warnings that may be issued and try to be prepared as possible.

“While there are immediate challenges associated with flooding, as the weather improves over coming weeks, animal health problems such as foot rot and fly strike in sheep, and nitrate poisoning and bloat in cattle have the potential to emerge as issues.

“Producers need to be vigilant and act promptly if health issues such as these are observed in their livestock.”