top of page
Writer's picture600milliondogs.org

What happens to stray dogs and cats during a heatwave?

Updated: Jul 30

thirsty stray dog before rescue
Axil could have ended up suffering a slow, painful death from heatstroke.

This year, India is experiencing “... the longest heatwave it has ever seen." Temperatures in some areas have exceeded 122 degrees Fahrenheit, and on May 31, "at least 33 people, including election officials, died of suspected heatstroke." [1]

 

In the midst of this tragic human suffering, we can't forget the severe impact of the heatwave on India's 60 million stray dogs — the largest stray population in the world — and on the millions of stray cats. [2]

stray dog drinking water fom puddle
Stray dogs and cats have no protection from the elements.

Stray dogs and cats left out in the scorching heat are at high risk of getting heatstroke. With no shade or water, they pant heavily, their hearts race, and they often vomit or have diarrhea. 

 

Weak and wobbly, they stumble and collapse, unable to stand up. 

 

Some may even have seizures, shaking uncontrollably.

stray cat drinking water from puddle
What are animals supposed to do when the heat becomes unbearable?

Lying helpless on the hot pavement, their eyes lose their sparkle, showing just how much they're suffering. 

 

These heartbreaking scenes highlight how urgently these dogs and cats need protection from the deadly heat. 

 

Far too many dogs and cats are born into a lifetime of suffering. 

happy rescued stray dog
Rescued Pilot Pup Axil now has the food, water, love, and shelter that she needs!

All dogs and cats deserve a loving guardian and shelter from the elements. That’s why our mission is to end the #1 cause of suffering and death for dogs and cats -- overpopulation -- by developing a permanent-lasting birth control cookie that will only need to be eaten one time, and it will in effect spay or neuter -- without surgery.


Help end the #1 cause of suffering for dogs and cats … for as little as $5 a month!


sickly stray cat walking

When Team 600 rescued Axil, she was suffering in the heat, well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. With no access to food, water, or shelter, she could have suffered the same slow, painful death that far too many strays face.

 

Thankfully, she is now safe and has a second chance at the life every dog deserves.

 

For more information on our work to develop the Spay and Neuter Cookie, check out our Current Studies page: https://www.600milliondogs.org/currentstudies


Thanks so much for caring about animals!


Sources:





38 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page