According to Steve Sosna, Philadelphia Ten News, feel like temperatures the rest of this week throughout much of South and Central NJ will surpass the stressful week in June with temperatures well into the mid 100’s. Many News stations are alerting viewers to the cumulative effect of this heat wave on pets, livestock and people.
Pastured chicken, sheep, swine, goats and guardian dogs are at high risk to experience heat stress this week and night time temperatures will provide little relief.
Heat stress check for above livestock: Shade, constant supply of cool water (ice chunks) and fans to provide air circulation. Where feasible, temporarily bring animals into pole barns, cellars or concrete walled structures to reduce sun exposure during the hottest time of the day. Remember that pigs can suffer from to much sun exposure leading to extreme sunburn or heat stroke.
Additional steps:
- Water measures for poultry: https://www.purinamills.com/chicken-feed/education/detail/summer-flock-care-how-to-keep-chickens-cool
- Heat stress in poultry: https://extension.umn.edu/poultry-care-and-management/preventing-heat-stress-poultry#:~:text=Birds%20are%20subject%20to%20heat,help%20provide%20relief%20to%20birds.
- Heat stroke in pigs: https://www.thepigsite.com/disease-guide/heat-stroke
- Heat stress in lambs and goats: https://www.sheepandgoat.com/heatstress
