In light of the high temperatures, the German Animal Welfare Association is warning of the potential dangers to domestic and wild animals. 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 shaded retreats. You should keep a particularly close eye on your own pets on hot days to recognize warning signs early,” says Dr. Moira Gerlach, specialist advisor for companion animals at the German Animal Welfare Association.
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, hanging cloths can provide coolness. Outdoor cats usually seek out shaded spots on their own and shift their activities to the cooler evening hours.
Dogs should ideally only be walked during the cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening. Asphalt can heat up significantly and cause burns to their paws. Animals must also never be left in a car: life-threatening temperatures can develop inside the vehicle in just a few minutes. Anyone who discovers an animal in an overheated vehicle should immediately notify the police.
Act quickly in case of overheating
At the very latest when animals show signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, restlessness, or loss of balance, they must be removed from the heat immediately and cooled down with cold water as quickly as possible. If heatstroke is suspected, veterinary assistance should be sought immediately.
Watering holes help wild animals
“Wild animals are also increasingly dependent on help when natural water sources dry up,” says Paulina Kuhn, wildlife specialist at the German Animal Welfare Association. Especially in cities, hedgehogs, squirrels, wild birds, and even urban pigeons often struggle to find water during heat waves. Shallow water bowls in the garden or on the balcony, placed in the shade if possible, can help and save lives. Animal lovers often set up water bowls in cemeteries or on green spaces as well. Small stones or pieces of wood in the water bowls serve as a practical landing aid for insects. The water should be changed daily.
Further information on protecting wildlife during heat waves: www.tierschutzbund.de/tiere-themen/wildtiere/wildtiere-und-hitze
