July surprised us this year. For Southern California, high 80s almost felt like a gift. But we knew it would not last. Now the heat has rolled in and we have already hit 103 degrees in the shade. It will most likely stick around through September, and if history is any guide, we will not really feel relief until sometime in October.
At Sale Ranch, keeping our animal residents cool is not just about comfort. It is about their health and their safety. Heat stress can turn into a medical emergency fast, especially for our older residents, anyone with a medical condition, and our birds.
Creating Cool, Safe Spaces
We may not track the temperature in every corner of the ranch, but we know our insulated barns stay at least 10 to 15 degrees cooler than outside. Our main barn has misters, shade, and now brand new solar-powered fans that our amazing donors purchased for us through our Amazon wish list. We are also painting it white to help reflect the heat.
Around the property, shade sails stretch across paddocks and over the pig wallows. The pigs have the right idea. On hot afternoons they spend hours stretched out in the cool mud under the sails, happy as can be.
Care in the Heat
When the temperature climbs, our routine changes. Every hour our care crew is out checking on everyone. We make sure waters are full and shaded, and that no one is starting to look too warm or sluggish. If someone needs help staying hydrated we will test them and, if needed, give IV fluids. Hose downs and cooling alcohol baths help when we see signs that the heat is getting to someone.
Clean water is our number one priority. We refill all day long, move bowls out of the sun when we can, and scrub them daily so nothing harmful starts to grow.
Fans, Snacks, and Simple Joys
Some of the best summer moments are also the simplest. Ruby Rae cannot stand on her own, so we place a fan right by her spot to keep her comfortable while she enjoys chilled watermelon. The pigs get frozen fruit and cool drinks. Everyone gets a little extra attention from our care crew on the hottest days.
The Care Crew’s Summer Marathon
While most people spend extreme weather days inside their homes in the AC or by the fire, our crew is outside all day and often longer. We adjust our workloads so we can keep checking on everyone. We drink our own electrolytes, take breaks when we can, and watch out for each other. It is exhausting and challenging but worth every bit of effort knowing our residents are safe.
A Summer Reminder for Everyone
Farm animals feel the heat just like we do. Overheating can be deadly no matter the species. If you have animals at home, please remember the three essentials. Shade. Clean, cool water. And a way to help them cool down.
Be mindful. Be aware. And act before the heat becomes an emergency.
Kindness lives here, even on the hottest days of the year. Through every triple digit afternoon, our mission stays the same. Protect, care for, and honor every life entrusted to us.
