# Animal welfare concerns during Turkish heatwaves

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/animal-welfare-concerns-during-turkish-heatwaves
> Updated: 2026-08-22T19:06:40.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

As summer temperatures rise in Turkey, veterinary professionals have issued warnings regarding animal welfare during heatwaves.

Initially, pet shop operator and veterinary technician Gülce Özdamar advised pet owners on preventative measures for companion animals. These included using breathable mesh or fan-ventilated carriers, shortening walks to cooler evening hours, and providing cooling aids like thermal beds. She cautioned against dunking animals in water or providing ice-cold water directly to avoid illness.

As the heat intensified, veterinarian Gökmen Koç issued an urgent appeal in Zonguldak specifically for street animals. He urged citizens to establish life-support stations by placing clean water and food outside homes and workplaces to prevent dehydration and death among stray populations.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: Zonguldak veterinarian urges public to provide water for street animals during heatwave

Veterinarian Gökmen Koç is urging citizens in Zonguldak to provide water and food for street animals to prevent fatal dehydration during an intense heatwave.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zonguldak-veterinarian-urges-public-to-provide-water-for-street-animals-during-heatwave

### 2026-08-06: Pet shop owner Gülce Özdamar urges Turkish pet owners to protect animals in heat

Turkish pet shop owner Gülce Özdamar advises using breathable carriers, limiting walks, and providing shade or cooling mats to protect pets from summer heat.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pet-shop-owner-glce-zdamar-urges-turkish-pet-owners-to-protect-animals-in-heat

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Cite as: Animal welfare concerns during Turkish heatwaves. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/animal-welfare-concerns-during-turkish-heatwaves