As high-pressure atmospheric systems stalled over large swaths of North America and Europe this week temperatures soared, placing pets and people in peril.
Parts of Texas and Oklahoma topped the 110 mark, desiccating already arid lands. The oft fog-shrouded London, England, peaked at a record 104 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday, killing 1,500 people. Athens, Greece, topped out at 115 degrees, sparking wildfires. High-density urban areas without cooling green spaces and homes sans A/C baked their occupants.
Many municipalities and their animal shelters raced to protect their inhabitants. Convention centers and other spaces were converted into cooling stations, though many were underutilized due to unawareness or inaccessibility. In some areas, cooling measures have been limited due to lack of resources or foresight.
Remedies to beat the heat are born of common sense and ingenuity:
A few London locals hung white sheets outside sun-drenched windows to refract heat (though blotting out more light, dark sheets would absorb heat). Others crimped reflective foil onto their panes in hopes of shielding at least a single room from the sun’s oppressive rays.
Several water bowls set strategically throughout the home and yard provide pets ready relief when and where pets need it. Periodically drop ice cubes in to cool and refresh water. East/west running hedgerows create welcome shade belts; keep these thinned sufficiently to promote airflow.
Late-risers may hate this: predawn is the coolest time of day to walk the pooch. The sun arcs highest around noon, but the hottest time of day is often mid-late-afternoon. By then, the earth has baked for many hours under a dome of heat. Asphalt feels like hot embers to tender paws.
As mercury spikes, HVAC systems can overload and fail, putting animals at risk for heat prostration. Such was the case at the Marion Animal Shelter in Arkansas. Administrators asked the public to step up and foster its residents until repairs could be made. The city installed misting fans in the meantime.
It may seem counter-intuitive, but avoid shearing/shaving dogs for the summer. Dogs’ layered coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. A trim is okay. Brushing cats more often combs out debris that can become harmful in the heat. Use only sunscreens and insect repellants designated for pets.
Stay tuned for the signs of heat stroke in animals. Panting, purple tongues, sweating paws, lethargy and delirium require immediate attention and veterinary care ASAP. Good Sam laws in many states allow for breaking car windows to free pets trapped by thoughtless owners.
The homeless and their pets are especially vulnerable to exposure. Consider carrying a stash of non-perishable foods (granola/protein bars without melty coatings for humans, kibble for pets) along with several bottles of frozen water in your car. These gifts — and a personal connection — may just make one’s day.
The earth’s warming pattern is undeniable. No region is safe from the ravages of climate change which our reliance on fossil fuels has accelerated. Take steps to cut carbon emissions now. Our planet is a canvas upon which the art of life thrives. No canvas, no life.