Heat shock in the Black Forest: This is how our pets suffer from the heat!

Heat shock in the Black Forest: This is how our pets suffer from the heat!

A heat wave currently has the Schwarzwald-Baar district firmly in its grip, where temperatures exceed 30 degrees. In this mid-summer phase, not only people are required to adapt their activities, but also our beloved four-legged friends. The Black Forest messenger reports on the different behaviors of animals in the district animal shelter in Donaueschingen in view of the oppressive heat.

Everywhere in the animal shelter it is clear that dogs and cats have very different strategies for dealing with the heat. While many cats retreat to shady places, some, like Moon the cat, enjoy the sunshine to the fullest. The dogs also show this facet: Some don't feel like going outside despite having so much fun in the summer. For the luckier “sun worshipers” among you, the small paddling pools on the terraces are a welcome refreshment.

Important animal welfare

It is particularly important to make sure that the animals drink enough. Loud Düren Animal Welfare Association Fresh drinking water must be available at all times. However, many cats do not drink enough water, which is why drinking fountains or multiple water bowls can be helpful. Watering points in gardens or parks are also essential for wildlife to help dehydrated species during this dry period.

A critical warning also comes from German Animal Welfare Association, which emphasizes that pets like dogs and cats cannot cool themselves down by sweating. They regulate their body temperature by panting and drinking. To avoid heat strokes, it is advisable to plan your walks early in the morning or late in the evening, while the hot asphalt is kept out of the animals' sensitive paws.

Practical measures for cooling

In addition, pet owners should ensure that their pets do not stay in the blazing sun for too long and ensure that they always have cool places to retreat. For dogs and cats who don't like to be in cool environments, frozen toys or special cooling mats can be a pleasant change. Under no circumstances should dogs be left in parked cars - even a short period of time can be fatal, as temperatures can rise to dangerous levels in a flash.

If your four-legged friends do get into trouble, you need to act quickly. If there are signs of heat stroke, such as heavy panting or restlessness, the animals should be immediately moved to a cool place and their body temperature carefully reduced.

Enjoy the summer with your pets, but take responsibility for their safety and well-being. By taking a few simple precautions, we can ensure our animal friends survive the heat better.