Polish animal shelters battle heatwave; fire brigade aids Konin shelter as temperature claims spark controversy

During an intense heat wave, the volunteer fire brigade from OSP KSRG Konin‑Chorzeń rushed to the Konin Animal Shelter to cool cages, roofs and run‑off areas with water, providing relief for the dogs amid soaring temperatures.

In another region, a rescue group warned that temperatures in a Nowy Targ shelter’s kennels had reached 70 °C and that several dogs were unresponsive. Police and the county veterinary inspector conducted a two‑day inspection, found no dead animals, and said the actual temperature was far lower. They noted that the shelter had installed cooling mats, sprinklers and continuous cold water supplies. Similar heat‑mitigation steps were reported at a Warsaw shelter, including shade structures, mist curtains and restricted outdoor activity for vulnerable dogs.

Both incidents highlight how Polish animal shelters are coping with extreme summer heat and the scrutiny of their welfare practices.