– With temperatures soaring above 45°C, small actions can prevent major health risks for animals – By Dr. Sunny Magar, Veterinary Officer, MSU, NMC
Rising summer temperatures pose a significant risk to pet health. Unlike humans, pets have limited sweating ability, which makes them more susceptible to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Proper care during this season is essential to prevent serious health complications.
Hydration and Feeding
Continuous access to clean drinking water is crucial. Water bowls should be cleaned and refilled at least 3–4 times daily to avoid contamination. Cats, in particular, tend to avoid stagnant water; using a water fountain can encourage better water intake.
Pets often show reduced appetite in hot weather, so feeding should be scheduled during cooler hours such as early morning or late evening. During peak afternoon heat, light liquid diets such as diluted curd, buttermilk (for dogs), or broth-based feeds can help maintain hydration and energy levels.
Shelter and Temperature Control
Pets should be protected from direct sunlight, especially during afternoon hours. Keeping them in a well-ventilated, shaded, or air-cooled environment helps regulate body temperature.
Leaving pets inside parked vehicles can be life-threatening, as the temperature inside a car can rise by more than 5°C within just 30 minutes, regardless of outside conditions. Extremely cold water should be avoided, as sudden temperature changes may be harmful.
Exercise and Surface Safety
Physical activity should be limited to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or after sunset. Hot pavements, sand, and metal surfaces can cause burns on paw pads.
A simple rule: if the ground is too hot to walk on barefoot, it is too hot for your pet.
Hygiene and Skin Care
Regular grooming, including brushing, helps remove loose hair and improves air circulation through the coat. However, complete shaving of double-coated breeds is not advisable, as their coat provides protection against heat.
Periodic deworming and parasite control are essential to prevent tick and flea infestations, which increase during summer.
Recognizing Heat Stress
Common signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and elevated body temperature. In severe cases, pets may collapse or show disorientation. Immediate cooling and veterinary attention are necessary.
Special Focus: Care for Stray Dogs in Nagpur
Stray dogs are highly vulnerable during extreme summer, particularly in cities like Nagpur where temperatures can exceed 45°C. Community participation plays a vital role in their survival.
Placing water bowls in shaded areas outside homes, shops, and public spaces can significantly reduce dehydration. Providing shaded resting areas helps prevent heat exhaustion.
Feeding should be done during cooler hours with light, easily digestible food. During extreme heat, stray dogs may show irritability due to stress; citizens should avoid provoking them and maintain a safe distance.
It is also important to check under parked vehicles before starting them, as animals often take shelter beneath them to escape the heat. Coordinated efforts by citizens, local authorities, and animal welfare organizations are essential to reduce heat-related distress.
Conclusion
Preventive care, adequate hydration, and proper shelter are key to protecting pets during summer. At the same time, small, thoughtful actions by citizens can make a significant difference in safeguarding stray animals during extreme weather conditions.