Heat Stress Threatens Pets, Livestock Across Multiple US Regions

As summer temperatures rise, animals ranging from household pets to livestock face significant heat-related health risks. Veterinarians advise pet owners to keep their animals well-hydrated and monitor for signs of heat exhaustion, especially for dogs with dark or dense coats and breeds with short snouts like French Bulldogs and Pugs that are particularly vulnerable to overheating. Farmers are also taking extensive measures to protect livestock such as cattle and pigs by ensuring access to cool water, shaded pastures, and shelters, as heat stress can adversely affect weight gain, reproduction, and disease susceptibility. At events like the Jackson County Fair, animal caretakers employ detailed cooling and grooming routines to help livestock cope with the heat. Experts emphasize vigilance during brief heat stress periods because they can have long-term impacts on animal health and productivity. Overall, proactive management and environmental adjustments are critical to safeguarding animal well-being during extreme summer heat.