Italian towns ban outdoor exposure of pets during heat wave

In July 2026 several Italian municipalities adopted emergency ordinances to protect companion animals from extreme heat. The city of Foggia prohibited owners from leaving dogs and cats on balconies, terraces, courtyards or any outdoor area without shade, ventilation and fresh water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.; violations carry fines of €25‑€500. Bari enacted a similar ban lasting until 30 September, requiring shade, water and shelter for any pet left outdoors and also forbidding animals inside parked vehicles. Manfredonia’s mayor signed Ordinance 46, extending the prohibition to balconies, terraces and vehicle interiors from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and adding bans on long walks or exercise in those hours unless strictly necessary. Pollena Trocchia introduced comparable measures, barring the placement of pets on external spaces lacking adequate cover during 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and mandating immediate provision of water, shade and ventilation. All ordinances impose administrative penalties of €25‑€500 for non‑compliance, aiming to prevent heat‑stroke, dehydration and fatal injuries among pets during the summer heat wave.