As heatwave conditions prevail, the NSPCA issues an appeal — \u201cTake precautions to ensure the safety and welfare of animals.\u201d<\/p>\n
The extreme weather conditions affect all animals.<\/p>
The importance of shade and access to drinking water is emphasised.<\/p>\n
Chained dogs are especially at risk.<\/p>
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.<\/p>\n
With companion animals, it is recommended that they are not taken out in vehicles except for emergency situations such as visits to the veterinarian.<\/p>\n
Avoid walking or exercising dogs in the heat of the day \u2013 and be aware that the heat of tarred roads or hot pavements can damage the animals\u2019 paws.<\/p>\n
Rather wait until temperatures drop towards the end of the day or take a break from exercising your animals whilst temperatures soar.<\/p>\n
People often assume \u2013 wrongly \u2013 that if a rabbit has a hutch, it has adequate shade.<\/p>\n
In heatwave conditions, it would be preferable to move the hutch indoors.<\/p>\n
To state the obvious, the sun moves.<\/p>\n
Any confined outdoor animals need to be placed where they will be out of the sun all day.<\/p>\n
\u201cPlease carry the number of your local SPCA with you at all times,\u201d said Christine Kuch from the NSPCA.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven if the issue is not theirs to handle, they can pass on details to the relevant SPCA.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Working animals such as security dogs or donkeys used for transport need to be monitored carefully to avoid dehydration, fatigue and even heatstroke.<\/p>\n
Farm animals plus captive wild animals are dependent upon the human population for the provision of shade and water.<\/p>\n
Anything untoward or of concern needs to be reported.<\/p>\n
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Other articles you may be interested in:<\/p>\n
Take heed of these heatwave tips<\/a><\/p>\n Take precautions in the current heatwave \u2013 says weather service<\/a><\/p>\n