Take care of your pets
As the hot conditions, experienced over the past few days are expected to prevail, the NSPCA has cautioned pet owners to take precautions to ensure the safety and welfare of animals.
The extreme weather conditions affect all animals. The importance of shade and access to drinking water is emphasised.
“Chained dogs are especially at risk. In the case of chained or confined animals with no shade and no access to water, the local SPCA should be contacted and provided with details so that assistance can be given,” said Christine Kuch spokesperson for the NSPCA.
“With companion animals, it is recommended that they are not taken out in vehicles except for emergency situations such as visits to the veterinarian,” added Kuch.
“Avoid walking or exercising dogs in the heat of the day and be aware that the heat in tarred roads or hot pavements can damage the animals’ paws.”
“Rather wait until temperatures drop towards the end of the day or take a break from exercising your animals whilst temperatures soar,” said Kuch.
“To state the obvious, the sun moves. Any confined outdoor animals need to be placed where they will be out of the sun all day.”
“We ask the public to take all necessary precautions regarding their own animals to ensure their well-being during the hotter days but also to be alert to issues arising affecting other animals.”
“Working animals such as security dogs or donkeys used for transport need to be monitored carefully to avoid dehydration, fatigue and even heatstroke’s,” said Kuch.
The contact number for the local SPCA is 011 742-2007
