How to Help Animals in Summer: Dogs, Cats, and More

Summer can be a tough season for animals due to high temperatures, increased human movement, deserted areas, overcrowded zones, festivities, and more. 

How can we help animals in summer?

Provide Clean and Fresh Water: Always ensure animals have access to clean, fresh water. This applies to both the pets we live with (dogs, cats, etc.) and urban wildlife. Placing a bowl of water on the street or window sills is easy. If you add pebbles to the bowl, it will allow birds and insects to drink safely. To keep the water cool for longer, place the bowls in the shade and add ice cubes.

Offer Shaded and Sheltered Areas: For our pets, it's essential to provide shaded, well-ventilated areas, possibly with air conditioning. But what about street animals? If you have land, you can leave a garage or access to a cooler indoor area open, or set up insulated, shaded shelters for homeless animals.

Avoid Walking During Extreme Heat: Refrain from walking your pets at midday or during peak heat hours. Ideally, walks should be scheduled at dawn or dusk. To prevent paw burns, place your hand on the asphalt or sidewalk for 5 seconds—if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them. If walking on shaded paths where it’s still warm, carry water and take breaks to check their well-being.

Provide Proper Nutrition: In addition to fresh water, offer appropriate food to both pets and urban or homeless animals in need. Avoid overfeeding, and in tourist areas, remove harmful food items (e.g., bread or fried foods) that people might give to ducks or other wildlife.

Learn First Aid and Accident Prevention: Knowing how to act if you encounter a dehydrated animal or one suffering from heatstroke is crucial. If unsure, contact a veterinary clinic immediately. Recognize heatstroke signs such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and red gums. Move the animal to a cool place and contact a vet if you notice these symptoms.

Prevent Sunburn: Some breeds, especially those with light or no fur, can get sunburned. Use sunscreens specifically designed for animals on sensitive areas and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Prevent Wildfires: Avoid activities like barbecues and campfires and dispose of trash responsibly to protect the natural habitats of wildlife.

Check Your Car Before Driving: Tap on your car hood before starting it, as cats and other small animals might seek shade underneath. Drive cautiously in areas where animals might cross the road.

Volunteer During Holidays: Use your vacation time to volunteer with an animal organization or foster an animal in need.

Support Overloaded Animal Shelters: Consider making a donation to local shelters. Even a small contribution can make a significant difference during the busy summer months.

Join or Support Awareness Campaigns: Participate in or back campaigns promoting animal welfare in summer and against abandonment. Use social media to share tips on how to care for animals during extreme heat and discourage abandonment.

Educate Your Community: Share information with friends, family, and neighbors about protecting animals in summer. Community education can help prevent dangerous situations and promote animal welfare.

Organize Informative Talks: If you have the knowledge and opportunity, hold talks to educate others about the necessary care for domestic animals, urban wildlife, and wild fauna during the summer.

In summer, we can greatly assist animals by providing shade and fresh water, adjusting walk routines, and supporting local shelters. Prevention, education, and collective action with neighbors, friends, or family are key. With a bit of effort, we can significantly improve the lives of animals during the hottest months of the year.