Do you ever find yourself feeling content as you drift off to sleep, wrapped up in your cozy blankets with the cool air conditioning on, at twilight? But have you considered the less fortunate creatures roaming the streets and enduring scorching temperatures on the streets?
The impact of rising temperatures on animal behaviour cannot be overlooked. It often leads to abnormal aggressiveness which can have severe consequences for both the dogs and humans.
These street animals require the same affection and care as the ones living inside our houses. 
Following are a few tips we all can take for the betterment during the summeer season:
1. Provide water: Hydration is essential for any living organism, especially in summer. Hence, placing terracotta or mud bowls with clean water outside your houses, is highly recommended as these bowls keep the water cool for an extended period. For small animals like squirrels and birds, one can hang shallow bowls on trees or terraces. A few points to be noted are:
- Do not serve extremely chilled water, as this can increase the risk of heart stroke.
- Clean and refill the bowls at regular intervals.
2. Shade and shelter: Animals instinctively seek cool, dark places to ride out the summer essence. This will limit the risk of homeless animals seeking shelter under parked cars or under their bonnets. This would help reduce the chance of accidents and even human-animal conflict.
3. Spray water around streets: Spraying water using mist pumps around streets and places often visited by animals, provides coolness and comfort to community animals, like cows, cats, and dogs.
4. Cattle on the roadside: It is essential to prioritize the well-being and safety of the animals commonly found on the side of the road, including cows and buffalos. To ensure their optimal health, it is recommended to collaborate with nearby dairy farmers to provide them with an access to ample supply of fresh water and grass. This will help to mitigate the negative effects of noise pollution, heat waves, and other environmental factors that can adversely impact their health and welfare.
5. Stay alert: Always be on the lookout for animals and birds who could be injured or suffering from heat strokes. It is highly advisable to contact the responsible authorities in case of any injuries, ill-treatments, heatstroke, or any such emergencies.
*Note: WAYS TO IDENTIFY HEAT STROKES IN ANIMALS AND BIRDS:
1. Panting or heavy breaths are often associated with cardio and heart attacks.
2. Lethargy or unusual activities performed are often seen as an indication.
3. Elevated pulse - to determine the pulse rate, place your hand either on the chest behind or on the hind leg (if the dog allows so)
6. Gentle Gestures: It is our responsibility to show empathy and affection towards the innocent animals in our community and surrounding areas. Let us act and make a positive impact in their lives without hesitation or excuses. Showing the slightest affection towards them contributes to providing them the comfort of being loved and henceforth worth the life!
Author: Tanishka sharma, a student volunteer at the STRAW India organization, is highly fascinated by the inarticulate beings; she adores and admires the enriched activities that are valuable for the well-being of others.