Ministry of Environment Urges Animal Owners to Implement Heat Protection Measures Amidst Rising Temperatures
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – July 25, 2024 – As the Kingdom experiences a significant surge in ambient temperatures, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) has issued a timely and crucial advisory to all animal owners. The Ministry is strongly encouraging proactive measures to safeguard the welfare and health of animals during this period of elevated heat.
Recognizing the potential risks associated with high temperatures, MEWA emphasizes the importance of providing adequate shade and ventilation for all animals. This includes livestock, poultry, and companion animals, ensuring they have access to cool, sheltered areas that offer respite from direct sunlight and stifling heat. Proper airflow within enclosures is paramount to prevent overheating and potential heatstroke.
Furthermore, the Ministry highlights the critical need for readily available access to fresh, clean water. Animals require significantly more hydration during hot weather to regulate their body temperature and maintain essential bodily functions. Owners are advised to check and replenish water sources frequently, ensuring they are cool and accessible at all times. Consideration should be given to providing multiple water points to accommodate all animals.
MEWA also advises owners to adjust feeding schedules, recommending that feed be provided during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. This minimizes the metabolic heat generated during digestion when temperatures are at their peak. The quality and type of feed may also need to be considered to ensure it is easily digestible and contributes minimally to internal heat production.
The Ministry is urging animal owners to be vigilant and observe their animals for any signs of heat stress. Symptoms can include excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, and unsteadiness. In the event any of these indicators are observed, immediate steps should be taken to cool the animal down, such as moving them to a cooler environment, providing cool water, and if necessary, seeking veterinary attention.
This proactive approach by MEWA underscores the Ministry’s commitment to animal welfare and its understanding of the physiological challenges animals face during extreme weather conditions. By implementing these recommended measures, animal owners can play a vital role in ensuring the health, comfort, and well-being of their animals throughout the current heatwave and in anticipation of future periods of high temperatures.
“البيئة” تدعو الملاك إلى اتخاذ التدابير الخاصة بحماية الحيوانات في درجات الحرارة المرتفعة
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mewa.gov.sa published ‘”البيئة” تدعو الملاك إلى اتخاذ التدابير الخاصة بحماية الحيوانات في درجات الحرارة المرتفعة’ at 2024-07-25 00:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.