Summer care for our furry friends!

Summer care for our furry friends!

Come summer time, the mercury soars and we look out for ways to protect ourselves from the heat. Here, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, gives us a few lifesaving tips on caring for animals. Please share this information with all those who have some concern for our animal friends.

* Keep dog companions inside, as the high temperatures can cause heat stress and physical injuries including brain damage, which can also result in death.

* Avoid keeping pets inside parked cars, including for short periods in spite of having windows open, as even on a mild 28 degree day, the temperature inside the car can climb to a dangerous 32 degrees in the shade, and a deadly 71 degrees in sunlight, which can lead to pets succumbing to heatstroke within minutes.

* Provide water outdoors: Some clean, cool water in inexpensive mud pots, at places where there are homeless or working animals, will go a long way in relieving their thirst.

* Water pots for birds: Placing some bowls of water on window sills, on balconies or on terraces and in gardens will help quench the thirst of our winged friends.

* Giving working animals a break, by asking owners of bullocks and donkeys to give the animals a rest, especially during the heat of the afternoon.

* Giving working animals a sweet or a fruit treat.

These are just a few pointers to making the scorching summer a little more bearable for the animals. In case you find an animal in distress, contact humane authorities right away, and give the animal some water for immediate relief. You can get in touch with PETA for advice or a referral to a local animal welfare organization or veterinarian.

PETA's Director of Veterinary Affairs, Dr. Manilal Valliyate says, "Many animals suffer through India's long summers. You can help them weather the hot sun's high temperatures by following our tips and volunteering with your local animal protection group."

We hope each of us does our bit to care for our four-legged and winged friends to get through this summer unscathed.