(A323) Wildfire Associated Burn Injury of 1400 Sheep in Northern California: A Coordinated Mass Casualty Veterinary Response

Abstract

Introduction

Wildfires can injure animals both from burns and inhalation of smoke and particulates. In 2006 a rapidly moving grass wildfire burned 12 square miles in Yolo County. Approximately 1400 sheep on the range suffered variable degrees of burns. A coordinated effort of triage and individual treatment or humane euthanasia was performed by the UC Davis Veterinary Emergency Response Team.

Methods

Animals: Two sheep ranches with 1100 (ranch A) and 300 (ranch b) adult sheep of different breeds, ranging in age from 1-6 years of age. Initial owner evaluation: Both ranchers considered humane destruction of all sheep showing evidence of burned discoloration, estimated to be over 95% of 1400 sheep. Ranch B attempted shooting comprised sheep but stopped and requested aid from UC Davis as did ranch A. Veterinary initial evaluation and communications: Several burned sheep were visible from the roadway. Many sheep were standing with limited movement and some were recumbent. Triage was performed by bringing food and water sources to the sheep and those not eating and drinking were evaluated first. Gunshot euthanasia following AVMA guidelines based on veterinary determination of hopeless prognosis was used. Veterinary team members (N = 25) coordinated treatments, communications with public health, animal control, and press media, carcass disposal, volunteer management, and acquisition of office of emergency services resources.

Treatment

Topical treatment of eyes and skin burns with silver sulfadiazine ointment, administration of systemic antibiotics (LA 200), pain relief (flunixine meglumine), wound debridement, and cesarean section of late term terminal sheep were performed.

Results

Over 500 sheep were euthanized by gunshot and the remainder (approximately 900) recovered lasting from 1-42 days. Progression of burn injury to skin, udder, face, and hoofs persisted for 42 days.

Conclusion

A coordinated veterinary response provided humane care and triage of this mass casualty animal emergency.