Protect your dog and other pets from the heat.
In light of the high temperatures, many animals cannot regulate their body temperature through sweating. They therefore suffer particularly from heat and drought.
On hot days, animals need constant access to fresh water and shady places to retreat to. It is especially important to keep a close eye on your pets on hot days in order to recognize warning signs early.
For outdoor enclosures for rabbits or guinea pigs, owners should ensure there are sufficient shaded areas – even as the sun moves. Pre-chilled stone slabs or damp, hung cloths can provide cooling. Outdoor cats usually seek out shady spots themselves and shift their activities to the cooler evening hours.
Dogs should ideally only be walked during the cooler hours of the day, in the early morning or evening. Asphalt can become extremely hot, causing burns to their paws. Animals should also never be left in a car: within just a few minutes, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach life-threatening levels. Anyone who discovers an animal in an overheated vehicle should immediately contact the police.
Act quickly in case of overheating
. At the latest, when animals show signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, restlessness, or loss of balance, they must be moved out of the heat immediately and cooled with cold water. If heatstroke is suspected, veterinary help should be sought immediately.
Water sources help wildlife.
Wild animals increasingly depend on human help when natural water sources dry up. Especially in cities, hedgehogs, squirrels, wild birds, and even city pigeons often struggle to find water during hot weather. Shallow-water bowls in the garden or on the balcony, preferably placed in the shade, can help save lives. Animal lovers also frequently place water bowls in cemeteries or green spaces. Small stones or pieces of wood in the water bowls provide insects with convenient landing aids. The water should be changed daily.