Amid rising temperatures, animal shelters across France are implementing emergency cooling measures to protect vulnerable animals during a severe heatwave. In facilities near Paris, staff are taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of extreme heat on housed dogs. To keep the animals cool, shelters have established cooling stations featuring paddling pools and cold showers.
Furthermore, specialized nutritional support has been developed; these facilities are reportedly providing a unique ice-based treat—an ice cream mixture composed of broth, meat, and kibble—to help regulate the dogs’ body temperatures. Shelter personnel emphasized that with temperatures consistently exceeding 40°C (104°F), these cooling protocols have transitioned from optional care to an essential necessity for animal welfare. The impact of the heatwave is also visible in the commercial pet care sector throughout France.
Pet stores have reported a significant surge in demand for cooling accessories. Sales of pet cooling pads have increased by 112% across the country. Over a three-week period, an estimated 12,000 cooling pads were sold, reflecting owners’ heightened concern for their pets’ comfort and safety.
These escalating sales figures underscore the widespread impact of the heat on both animal health and pet ownership practices in the region.
Topics: #france #dogs #ice
