Slovakia's summer heat prompts tips for homes and dogs

As temperatures climb above 30 °C across Slovakia, residents are advised to modify living spaces to stay comfortable. Modern apartments increasingly include air‑conditioning, but many rely on ventilation, shading windows with blinds or curtains, and using fans—sometimes boosted by placing ice or frozen water bottles in front of them. Reducing internal heat sources such as ovens, dryers and halogen lighting, and limiting heat‑generating activities to early mornings or evenings are also recommended.

Dog owners face similar challenges, since pets cool themselves mainly by panting and have limited sweat glands. Experts suggest walking dogs in the cooler early‑morning or evening hours, providing constant fresh water, keeping them in shade or well‑ventilated rooms, and avoiding hot pavement that can burn paw pads. Breeds with short noses or dense coats, as well as overweight or ill animals, need extra attention to prevent overheating.