IT’S hot out there and RSPCA Victoria is issuing an urgent reminder to all pet owners to ensure they provide plentiful water and adequate shelter for pets.
Last year, RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate received 3,657 cruelty reports relating to lack of water or shelter. They are urging pet owners to keep track of the weather forecast and act accordingly.
It is imperative that pet owners make hot weather plans and ensure animals are never left outside without water or shelter, even for short periods, and that smaller pets are moved indoors.
RSPCA Victoria advises keeping animals out of the sun, especially between the peak sun hours of 10am and 2pm and leaving small animals indoors, especially rabbits and guinea pigs who are particularly susceptible to suffering from heat stress and can deteriorate quickly.
Animals housed indoors should have well ventilated facilities with plenty of water and space for all animals to lie down. Large animals and others that live outdoors need access to proper shade and multiple water sources and must never be tethered. Provide water containers in different positions and make sure they can’t be tipped over.
Anyone who has concerns for the welfare of an animal is encouraged to contact RSPCA Victoria on 9224 2222 or at rspcavic.org and lodge a cruelty report. To find more information about how to keep your pet safe during hot weather visit www.rspcavic.org/summer
