I have lived in the NW Florida area for many years, Navy, job, etc and have know idea how any one would want to love here without A/C. Our A/C has been out since Friday (parts) think my dogs are thinking about packing up and leaving.
NW Florida in July and August result in my consideration of moving to Canada...every year. I was here during Michael and we got hit pretty hard. No AC or electricity for a month and I wish now we had just cut our losses and headed for the hills!
We stayed with my father in Mesa, AZ several years when he could not live alone. And one time the A/C went out for a couple of days.
Don't let anyone tell you it's a dry heat -- at some point, Hot is Hot. Lol.
We're back in our house now in the hills at 5000 ft where it's a lot more comfortable.
My grandmother lived in Ft. Lauderdale for a long time. She didn't even risk it. She played snowbird and ran to the cooler north every summer.
I feel for you -- especially for your animals. Make sure everyone gets plenty of water.