What should one do to take care of stray animals during Summers.

Wondering how you can help animals and birds stuck outside amid the sweltering heat of the summer? Here are some tips to help different kinds of animals.

While we still might have roofs over our heads and ACs to cool us down, our furry friends roaming the streets won’t really have that luxury. So, a little help from us will go a long way in aiding them to get through the season.

• Keeping water around:

It is easy for animals to get dehydrated when it is too hot. Place bowls of fresh water in shaded areas for stray dogs and cats. You can also put out a bird bath for birds. It is best to use terracotta bowls (clay-based non-vitreous ceramic) for drinking water as they remain cooler than others, and you could also add a cool stone in it to keep it cooler for long. Make sure to change the water daily to avoid waterborne infections.

• Setup a stray shelter:

Create shaded areas in your yard or neighborhood with makeshift shelters or by leaving out boxes for animals to seek refuge from the sun. Make sure your shelter is placed in a cool spot and is spacious so that it doesn’t trap heat. Create a well-ventilated space. For smaller animals like squirrels or rabbits, you can leave out shallow dishes of water or wet towels for them to cool off.

• Provide food:

Leave out food for stray animals like dry cat or dog food. Avoid feeding them foods that might spoil quickly in the heat. It is important to give animals right nutrition, you can choose different types of hydrating fruits like- watermelons, cucumber, or banana, as they are not too heavy for them and can help them maintain the water balance, but it’s essential to be cautious about which fruit you offer. Some fruits are safe and healthy, while others can be harmful. There are a variety of summer foods for dogs and cats available in stores that you can choose from too.

• Safety:

Be cautious with insect repellents or pesticides around animals, as they can be harmful. Also, check for signs of heatstroke in animals and seek help if needed. It is easy for strays to burn their paws while walking outside, so always lookout for signs of burns and treat them with the right ointments. You can also take the stray to the vet occasionally to avoid any issues.

• Contact Animal Services:

 If you notice a stray animal in distress, contact local animal services or shelters for assistance right away and give the animal water for immediate relief. Do not leave the animal’s side before help arrives. By following these tips, you can make a positive impact on the well-being of stray animals during the summer months.