Ensure your animals have adequate protection from the sun
Make sure your animals are taken care of properly in the heatwave.
As heatwave conditions prevail, the NSPCA issues an appeal — “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, contact your local SPCA and provide details so that assistance can be given.
With companion animals, it is recommended that they are not taken out in vehicles except for emergency situations such as visits to the veterinarian.
Avoid walking or exercising dogs in the heat of the day – and be aware that the heat of 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.
People often assume – wrongly – that if a rabbit has a hutch, it has adequate shade.
In heatwave conditions, it would be preferable to move the hutch indoors.
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.
“Please carry the number of your local SPCA with you at all times,” said Christine Kuch from the NSPCA.
“Even if the issue is not theirs to handle, they can pass on details to the relevant SPCA.”
The public is asked to take all necessary precautions regarding their own animals to ensure their well-being during the hot spell 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.
Farm animals plus captive wild animals are dependent upon the human population for the provision of shade and water.
Anything untoward or of concern needs to be reported.
Other articles you may be interested in:
Take heed of these heatwave tips
Take precautions in the current heatwave – says weather service
