Essential Precautions to Protect Animals from Heatstroke during summer – Causes and Remedies

The summer season is at its peak, and heatwaves are affecting the entire country. This severe heat is not only impacting humans but also animals, birds, and other creatures. Specifically, dairy animals are showing changes in their milk production, feed intake, and behavior. In such conditions, it becomes crucial for livestock owners to take extra care of their milking animals to prevent significant declines in milk production.

The Deputy Director of Animal Veterinary Services has advised livestock owners to take special care to protect animals from heatstroke (heat exhaustion) during this summer season. It is essential to recognize the symptoms of heatstroke in animals and adopt the right preventive measures.

Causes of Heatstroke in Animals:

1. Reduced appetite
2. Nosebleeds and diarrhea
3. Redness in the eyes and nose
4. Rapid breathing and signs of distress
5. Seeking shade and frequent sitting/standing
6. Decreased milk production
7. Excessive salivation

Measures to Protect Animals from Heatstroke:

1. Keep animals in shaded areas during the day and ensure they are protected from direct sunlight.
2. Adding a small amount of salt and flour to the water and giving it to animals can help provide them with additional energy and prevent heatstroke.
3. Keep animals in shaded areas and regularly spray their bodies with cool water.
4. Place animals in cool water-filled pits for a short time to help regulate their body temperature.
5. Giving animals a mixture of onion and mint extract can be beneficial as it cools their body and reduces the effects of heatstroke.
6. Do not keep animals in closed rooms; instead, ensure they are tied in well-ventilated areas.

Ensuring Proper Water Supply for Animals:

During summer, animals experience more thirst than hunger. Therefore, livestock owners must ensure that animals have access to sufficient clean and cool water. Animals should be given water at least three times a day to keep them hydrated and regulate their body temperature. If animals show signs of illness or heatstroke, it is crucial to immediately contact the nearest veterinary hospital or animal health center, or call the toll-free number 1962 for immediate treatment.

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