It is the end of the month of May but the summer temperatures are still peaking in most parts of India. Usually, with the onset of June, there is a little coolness in the air, making for a pleasant change. But the global temperature change is forcing a disastrous weather change this year. The summer temperatures are going about 40 degrees. In fact, there is a strong heatwave across where temperatures continue to rise beyond the 40-degree mark. We humans still have access to cold water and fans to take respite from the heat. It is the stray animals and birds which cannot even seek respite from the summer sun. We often tend to ignore the strays and don't think much about their discomfort as well in the heat. We thus give you a few ways in which you can care and make it a habitable and better place to deal with the summer for our stray companions. Delhi Heatwave: National Capital Reels Under Severe Heat, Mercury Likely to Hit 47-Degree Mark in Coming Days.

How to Care For Stray Animals in Summers

Keep water bowls: Just as important it is for humans to stay hydrated in the summer, animals also need water. So residential spaces can keep water bowls below their buildings or at the gate for the stray cats and dogs. Ensure the water is changed every day and refilled whenever needed. Birdbath Challenge: We Need More Such Humanitarian Measures This Summer 2019.

Get a bird feeder: You can buy a simple bird feeder online and keep it in your windows. Also, keep a small bowl filled with water for the birds. Once they get used to a regular supply of food and water they will start frequenting your area.

Birds feeding (Photo Credits: Pixabay)

Let Animals Rest Under the Cars: Most dogs look for a shade to rest under. But a lot of people cannot really take these animals at home, so you help by letting them sleep or rest under parked vehicles. If you park your vehicles on the main roads always check if there is any stray animal sleeping below.

Build a makeshift shelter: Today, a lot of trees are being cut for new projects so there are few places where the animals can go for shelter. So animals are constantly looking for some kind of another shelter. You could help by making one. With the help of cardboard, newspapers, cartons and old clothes, you can build a makeshift shelter and keep it in your area. Keep food and water nearby so that it attracts the strays.

Feed Them Properly: Animals also tend to lose out on regular appetite due to the summer heat. Stray animals anyway depend on waste food that comes their way. But if you are really keen on helping the strays, then instead of biscuits, offer cooling foods. You can offer them with cucumbers and hydrating fruits which have great water content.

stray dog (Photo Credits: Pixabay)

Approach an Animal NGO: If you want to help but do not know how to go about or aren't getting any support, feel free to go to an NGO which works for animal welfare. Usually, they need volunteers who can help in distributing food and water or just taking general care of the strays. Volunteer with them.

These are some ways in which you can do your bit for the stray animals and birds in the summer. As the temperatures soar, let your humanitarian touch rise to help those who cannot speak but need help. Let us contribute in whatever little ways for these strays who too are a part of our environment.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2019 12:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).