The coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are grappling with a significant increase in temperature, impacting various animals and birds, particularly productive livestock like cattle and poultry.

While areas like Mangaluru and Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada district have reported normal temperatures, the shifting climate has led to adverse effects on animal welfare. In response, the Department of Animal Husbandry has issued advisory measures, focusing on breeding cattle and enhancing veterinary services.

High temperatures during the summer season induce stress among animals, resulting in decreased food intake, reduced milk yield, and heightened susceptibility to heat-related fatalities, especially in meat chickens. Additionally, animals become more prone to diseases, with poultry particularly susceptible to respiratory ailments.

To mitigate heat stress and ensure animal welfare, proactive measures are recommended. These include limiting grazing to cooler hours, providing continuous access to clean, cool water, and creating shaded areas for animals. Other measures include regular spraying of animals with water, adjusting feeding schedules, and supplementing their diet with salt.

Similarly, ensuring the well-being of poultry involves maintaining clean water sources, adequate ventilation, and shade within poultry sheds. Supplementing water with vitamin C and electrolytes, along with regular cleaning of water tanks, are essential practices to prevent heat stress and heatstroke.

These measures aim to safeguard the welfare of animals and birds during the hot summer season, highlighting the importance of humane treatment and proactive care.

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