The extended weather forecast for the Northern Plains continues to indicate stressful conditions for livestock with temperatures from 90 to 98 and high humidity levels. With that in mind, South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Dustin Oedekoven says it’s important to keep cattle cool during that time period. He says feedlot cattle are the most at risk of heat stress.

He says proper sprinkling is advised along with fly control.

Oedekoven says producers may also need to adjust the cattle herd’s feed rations during the heat wave.

Oedekoven advises livestock producers not to transport cattle during times of heat stress. He says if you need to move cattle do it during the early morning hours before 9 a.m. He says producers can find useful cooling tips by going to the I-GROW website.