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RSPCA reminds pet owners to keep their animals safe over the warm months
WITH temperatures set to soar to 20C
this week, the RSPCA is issuing advice to pet owners to ensure their animals are
comfortable and happy in the heat. Just as cold, wintry weather can pose a risk
to animals, hot temperatures in the summer months can also be hazardous to our
furry friends.
Every year we receive thousands of reports of animals suffering from heat
exposure. The most common calls the RSPCA's emergency 24 hour line receives is
on dogs in hot cars. But it's important to remember not to leave any animal in a
car or caravan, or in a conservatory or outbuilding, where temperatures can
quickly rise to 47C which can result in death.
Last month, RSPCA inspector Anthony Joynes left a thermometer in
his van in 15C heat and left it for an hour to see what temperature it would
reach inside his vehicle. Within just 60 minutes, the temperature had climbed to
43.5C.
Inspector Joynes said:- "In an emergency, it is best to dial:- 999 and
report a dog in a hot car to Police. The RSPCA may not be able to attend quickly
enough and, with no powers of entry, we'd need police assistance at such an
incident. If the animal is displaying any sign of heatstroke; such as panting
heavily, drooling excessively, is lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and
vomiting; call:- 999 immediately." |
