Animal Services implements heat safety protocols at local shelter

During the recent Animal Advisory Commission meeting on July 14, 2025, a significant focus was placed on the measures being implemented to ensure the well-being of animals at the Austin Animal Shelter during extreme weather conditions. The discussion highlighted the ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for both animals and staff, particularly as temperatures rise.

Key among the initiatives is the shelter's commitment to hydration. Staff members are actively working to ensure that water buckets are consistently filled and clean, with volunteers being called upon to assist in maintaining the pools used for cooling animals. The shelter has also introduced a daily email protocol that informs staff about weather conditions, including signs of heat stroke and temperature guidelines for animal care.

The shelter's infrastructure has seen improvements over the past eight years, including the installation of canopies and air movers to combat heat. However, concerns were raised about the effectiveness of these measures, particularly regarding the use of fans, which can inadvertently spread germs during high temperatures. The shelter is cautious about using swamp coolers and has established strict temperature thresholds for animal care, closing kennels when temperatures exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Building services play a crucial role in maintaining the shelter's climate control systems. They monitor temperatures and can adjust settings remotely to ensure a stable environment. In cases of equipment failure, the shelter has contracts with multiple vendors to ensure rapid response times for repairs.

The meeting underscored the importance of proactive measures in animal welfare, especially during the sweltering summer months. As the shelter continues to adapt and improve its protocols, the focus remains on safeguarding the health and comfort of the animals in its care.