Recently hot summer weather hit the Northern Plains and more can be expected later this week. SDSU Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly says producers need to pay attention to when nights don’t cool off very well from the heat of the day and that’s when it’s important to take steps to guard against possible heat stress.

He says feedlot animals are usually most susceptible to heat stress so producers should make sure there’s good water and shade available.

He says also providing more water than normal or maybe even bringing in an extra water tank is advised. As far as transporting livestock, Daly says when the heat index hits 90 to 100 or more, that should be avoided.

Daly says there are some good tools on line to help fight heat stress in animals.