Animal Welfare During Heatwaves: Immediate Actions

Heatwaves cause rapid and severe welfare harm to animals. Knowing what to do for both companion animals and wildlife during extreme heat events can save lives and reduce suffering.

Key Facts

Dogs can experience heat stroke within 15 minutes in a car at 70 degrees Fahrenheit on a warm day
Birds and small mammals show signs of heat stress including open-mouth breathing and wing drooping
Wild animals may approach water sources and human habitation seeking relief during extreme heat events
Farm animals in confinement have no behavioral options to thermoregulate when temperatures exceed their thermal comfort zone
Shade, ventilation, and water access are the three primary interventions for heat stress in all species

Welfare Considerations

Heat events create acute welfare emergencies for both companion and wild animals. Preparedness actions taken before heatwaves arrive — shade infrastructure, water source setup, welfare monitoring schedules — prevent far more suffering than crisis responses after heat stress develops. The increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves under climate change makes heat welfare planning an increasingly important skill for anyone responsible for animals.

What You Can Do

Never leave animals in cars on warm days even for short periods
Provide shade and cool water for all animals in your care before heatwaves arrive
Set out shallow water dishes for wildlife during heatwave conditions
Check on companion animals and livestock more frequently during heat events
Know the signs of heat stress for the species you care for and have a veterinary contact ready