What method is suggested for cooling an overheated pig?

Sprinkling a pig with water is a recommended method for cooling an overheated animal because it allows for the natural process of evaporation to help lower the pig's body temperature. When water is sprinkled on the skin, it promotes evaporative cooling, which is an effective way to dissipate heat. This method avoids the potential shock that can occur with ice-cold water, which may not allow the body to acclimate to a lower temperature gradually.

Additionally, providing water rather than exposing the pig to extreme temperature changes supports the animal's natural thermoregulation and ensures that the cooling process is safe and effective. While shade is important for long-term prevention of overheating, simply putting the pig in a shaded area does not actively help cool it down in immediate terms. Cold food may not lower the body temperature effectively and could potentially add stress or discomfort. Thus, the method of sprinkling water stands out as the most effective and practical means to cool an overheated pig.