Summer Care For Pets

RSPCA Urges Extra Care for Pets During Summer Heat

RSPCA NSW is urging the community to take extra precautions to protect
their pets during the summer heat.

The RSPCA NSW call centre in Yagoona fields state-wide cruelty complaints
and is always inundated at this time of year with calls concerning heat
stressed animals.

RSPCA NSW Chief Veterinarian Dr Magdoline Awad says it's vital pets have
constant access to both water and shade as heat stress can develop
extremely quickly.

"Owners need to ensure their pets are kept safe, cool and hydrated to avoid a
cruel death," said Dr Awad. "If dogs need to be kept outside, a good idea is to
leave a few bowls of cold water in the shade in case one gets knocked over."

The RSPCA is also appealing to motorists to realise the dangers of leaving
dogs unattended in cars and on the back of ute trays.

"Cars left stationary in the sun become ovens and dogs can develop heat
stroke and suffer a cruel death in only 6 minutes. Ute trays also become
extremely hot so dogs can suffer a similar fate."

Dog owners are also urged to avoid walking their pets during the heat of the
day and choose either the early morning or late evening instead.

RSPCA's tips to protect pets this summer:

* Never leave an animal unattended in a car or on the back of a ute
* Ensure pets have constant access to water and shade
* Leave a few water bowls out for pets- it's also a good idea to put ice
cubes in their bowls to ensure it's kept cool
* Ensure bird cages and rabbit and guinea pig hutches are kept out of
the sun
* Hose birds lightly to cool them down
* Walk dogs in the morning or evening, avoiding the heat of the day.


Media Contact:
Michelle Minehan, RSPCA NSW Media Manager
E: [email protected]
M: 0413 622 020


SOURCE: RSPCA NSW