Heat waves have severely impacted both abandoned dogs in shelters and sheep in rural agricultural areas as temperatures soar to unprecedented levels. On June 14th, in Paju, Gyeonggi-do, approximately 400 abandoned dogs struggled against the early summer heatwave. Daytime temperatures peaked at 31.2 degrees Celsius, causing immense discomfort to both the animals and their caregivers. Activist Lee Ha-na from 'Animal Love in Action' emphasizes the dire conditions due to insufficient donations, leading to a lack of essential cooling equipment.
Similarly, in southern Albania, Sheep Shearing Day, a traditional celebration, has been affected by the intense heat. With temperatures reaching 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, shepherds in Dukat have had to expedite the shearing process to prevent heatstroke among the sheep. Traditionally held at the end of June, the shearing date was advanced this year to early June to mitigate the effects of the scorching sun. This early shearing is crucial as the thick wool on the sheep hinders their ability to cool down, potentially leading to fatal consequences.
In both scenarios, high temperatures not only threaten the well-being of animals but also strain the resources of those who care for them. Caregivers at the dog shelters endure grueling conditions without proper cooling mechanisms, while shepherds maintain their commitment despite fewer young people in the villages capable of continuing these traditions. The escalating heat waves underscore the urgent need for better support and resources to protect both animals and their caregivers from extreme weather conditions.
- Lee Ha-na highlights the lack of donations which forces the shelter to stretch their limited resources thin. Even basic cooling amenities like ice or cooling mats remain out of reach, making it difficult to maintain a safe environment for the dogs. These abandoned dogs, some of whom come from euthanizing facilities or are rescued from dog farms, face a life of enduring harsh summer and winter conditions if not adopted.
- In Albania, the shearing process remains a deeply rooted tradition performed with scissors, requiring precision to avoid harming the animals. Despite the urgency brought on by the heatwave, the shepherds ensure that the sheep are handled with care and comfort. However, the high temperatures this year have also reduced milk production among sheep, exacerbating the challenges faced by these rural communities.
- The story reflects a broader trend of how climate change and extreme weather patterns are putting additional stress on animal welfare and agricultural practices globally. Both scenarios call for increased support and innovative solutions to help vulnerable animals and the communities that depend on them.
