The current high temperatures are also very stressful for animals and can have fatal consequences. The German Animal Welfare Federation provides tips on how to protect pets and wild animals from the dangers of the heat.
Unlike humans, many animal species cannot regulate their body temperature by sweating. Pets drink and pant to cool themselves down. It is therefore important that fresh drinking water is always available, emphasizes the German Animal Welfare Federation. Animals also need a cool, shady place where they can retreat at any time. Dog owners should preferably walk their dogs in the cooler morning and evening hours. A dog pool can also provide the necessary cooling. Outdoor cats prefer to relax in shady areas of the garden and to spend their forays in the cooler evening and night hours. If rabbits or guinea pigs are kept in outdoor enclosures, make sure there are enough shaded areas. If they are kept on balconies, dangerous heat build-up can occur. Pre-cooled stone slabs or damp cloths can keep them cool.
NEVER LEAVE DOGS ALONE IN THE CAR
Animals should never be left alone in a car, even if the sky is slightly cloudy or the windows are open. Temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly rise to a life-threatening 50 degrees Celsius or more, even in such conditions. If you discover an animal in distress in a vehicle, the German Animal Welfare Federation advises you to contact the police immediately to have the vehicle opened if the owner cannot be located in time.
ACT QUICKLY IN THE EVENT OF OVERHEATING
If an animal shows the first signs of overheating, such as heavy panting and restlessness, it is important to act quickly: The animal must be taken out of the heat; the limbs can be moistened with cool, but not ice-cold water to cool the body down. If there are symptoms that indicate heatstroke, a vet must be consulted immediately. Other urgent warning signs are loss of balance, vomiting and eventually unconsciousness.
WATER TROUGHS HELP BIRDS, HEDGEHOGS AND INSECTS
In addition to pets, wild animals in the garden also struggle with the summer heat. They can quickly become dehydrated when streams and puddles dry up. In urban and agricultural areas, natural bodies of water are also rare. Animal lovers can help birds and hedgehogs in the garden with shallow water bowls to quench their thirst and cool off. This also applies to insects, with stones placed in the water serving as landing sites.
