Summer is in full swing, and while many of us enjoy the sunshine, rising temperatures can be tough on our animal residents. It’s a common misconception that only specific dogs are at risk of over-heating and heat stroke. While certain breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and other flat-faced dogs are more prone to overheating, heat stroke can affect any dog, regardless of breed, size, coat length, or age. Dogs don’t sweat the way humans do, and even active, seemingly healthy dogs can become dangerously overheated in just minutes when exposed to high temperatures or intense exercise, especially without adequate water or shade.   

At The Asher House, keeping all of our animals safe and comfortable in the summer heat is a top priority, and it takes thoughtful planning, constant monitoring, and a whole lot of love.

Here’s how we help our animals stay cool:

Plenty of fresh, cold water. Every water trough and bucket gets cleaned and refilled multiple times a day. For animals that love it, we even give frozen treats to help them stay hydrated and happy.

Shade, Shade, and More Shade: From trees and shelters to custom-built play structures, our furry residents always have a cool spot to relax. We keep a close eye on sun patterns to ensure every pasture and enclosure offers ample protection throughout the day.

Fans and Misters: Barns are equipped with industrial fans, and for some of our more heat-sensitive animals, we install misters that create a fine cooling spray. These tools can lower temperatures by several degrees and provide instant relief.

Frozen Treats and Enrichment: Goats and pigs love frozen watermelon chunks. Enrichment treats like these are not just refreshing, they provide mental stimulation and make summer days more enjoyable.

Cooling Baths and Mud Wallows: Some of our animals, like pigs, naturally cool themselves with mud. We make sure their wallows are fresh and full! Others get gentle hose baths or kiddie pools to splash around in.

Heat Safety Monitoring: Our team checks on animals frequently during heatwaves. We watch for any signs of heat stress, like lethargy, heavy panting, or unusual behavior, and act immediately if anyone needs extra care.

Thanks to your support, we are able to go the extra mile to protect our animals and keep them safe, cool, and thriving all summer long.