As the temperatures rise, so does the risk to animals. Whether they are living in outdoor environments, recovering in a sanctuary, or part of your family at home, animals face serious challenges in the summer heat.
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I live in a region where temperatures regularly climb past 110 degrees. When it gets that hot, the risks to animals become very real, very fast. Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburn can take hold quickly if we are not paying close attention. This is a season where compassion and proactive care make all the difference.
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Here are some of the most important ways to keep animals safe and comfortable during the summer months.
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1. Keep Them Hydrated at All Times
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Water is life, especially during a heat wave. Animals need fresh, cool water throughout the day. That might mean refilling bowls or troughs more often, placing buckets in shaded areas, or even
adding ice cubes to help regulate temperature. For sanctuary residents, larger tanks or automatic systems are often necessary to ensure no one goes without.
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2. Prioritize Shade
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Without shade, animals can overheat quickly. Trees offer the best natural cover, but many areas require temporary solutions like tarps, umbrellas, or shade cloths. At-home pets should never be tied up or left outside without shelter. A simple canopy or doghouse can make a life-saving difference.
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3. Use Cooling Techniques
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Spraying pigs with water, freezing fruit inside large blocks of ice for goats, or setting up misting systems in barns can help reduce the body temperature of animals. Even placing fans in shaded areas gives animals a place to cool down without direct sun exposure. These strategies are used at many sanctuaries and can be adapted at home too.
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4. Adjust Daily Routines
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During the summer, timing is everything. Many sanctuaries shift feeding and cleaning schedules to early morning and evening hours when it’s cooler. If you’re walking a dog or letting animals out to roam, stick to sunrise or sunset. Never leave an animal in a parked car, not even for a minute. Even with windows cracked, the temperature can rise to deadly levels in moments.
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5. Protect Skin and Fight Off Flies
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Animals with light or sparse fur are more prone to sunburn. Pigs, in particular, benefit from mud wallows that protect their skin from UV rays. Some animals need natural sunscreen or protective gear. Summer also brings an increase in flies and parasites. Natural fly sprays, repellents, and good sanitation go a long way in keeping animals comfortable and healthy.
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6. Know the Warning Signs of Heat Stress
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Watch carefully for signs that an animal is overheating. Symptoms might include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, lethargy, or unusual behavior. Chickens may spread their wings to release heat. Pigs may stop moving or eating. If you see any of these signs, take action immediately. Move the animal to shade, offer cool water, and mist or sponge their body.
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7. Support Sanctuaries on the Front Lines
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Summer is not just physically demanding for sanctuaries. It is financially draining too. Water bills increase, shade structures need repairs, and veterinary needs often rise with the temperature. A donation to help with supplies like fans, misting systems, and frozen treats can be a simple but powerful way to show support.
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A Season of Action
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Summer should be a time of joy for all living beings. With a little extra effort, we can make sure animals are not just surviving the heat but thriving under our care.
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When we take the time to keep them safe, we are saying something powerful. We are saying their comfort matters. Their lives matter. They are not alone.
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P.S. For more animal care tips and uplifting sanctuary stories, sign up for our newsletter or listen to the latest episode of the Better Life for Animals podcast at www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast
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