The RSPCA’s web page has been inundated with pet owners searching for advice on heatstroke – which could be a “silent killer” for our beloved companions amid record-breaking temperatures.
The charity’s web page offering advice on pet heatstroke has been inundated by pet owners – and recorded more than 4,200 sessions on Tuesday alone (26 May) – a staggering 4,841% increase from the normal daily average of 85 visits.
Visits to the charity’s dedicated ‘dogs die in hot cars’ campaign and advice page also spiked by a whopping 678% on the same day, rising to 428 sessions from a usual daily count of 55.
Heatstroke – when a dog gets too hot and can’t lower its temperature by panting – can quickly become fatal, so prevention is essential.
With much of England and Wales continuing to experience a heatwave, and with further scorching weather likely in the weeks to come, the RSPCA is issuing advice, tips and DIY video tutorials to help pet owners keep their furry and feathered friends cool and comfortable.
The soaring temperatures can pose huge risks to pets, wildlife and farm animals, and amid predictions from forecasters of these high temperatures, many pet owners and animal lovers may be concerned about keeping animals safe during the heatwave.
Lauren Bennett, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA said: “We’re in the midst of a heatwave here in the UK, with some areas experiencing temperatures well above 30°C (86°F), which many of us are finding very uncomfortable, let alone our pets.
“Heatstroke can be a silent killer, it’s hugely serious in dogs and immediate care is vital. But preventing it is the best way we can keep our pets safe, so it’s really brilliant that so many people have visited the RSPCA’s website to clue up on heatstroke advice.
“As part of the RSPCA’s Summer of Kindness, we’re asking pet owners and animal lovers to do a kind act for pets by supporting them during summer heatwaves.
“It’s also a really helpful idea to support local wildlife too, by popping out some bowls of water to help birds, foxes and other wildlife.”
Top tips for pet owners in hot weather
Have a go at making some frozen dog treats to keep your pooch cool
Watch the RSPCA’s video on how to keep cats cool in hot weather
Don’t let your pet get sunburnt – use pet-safe sun cream.
Ensure animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times. For animals that are kept outside, remember that as the sun moves during the day so too does the shade. Somewhere that was shaded in the morning could be in full sun by the afternoon.
Keep guinea pigs cool and hydrated by making them a fresh vegetable treat
Check small animals, poultry and other pets twice a day for flystrike.
Keep fish tanks out of direct sunlight.
Keep pesticides out of reach of animals.
For horses stabled during the day out of the heat, try making them our horse and pony boredom buster treat
Wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for your pet to lie on.
Encourage pet chickens to stay in shaded areas by hanging up a homemade vegetable garland for chickens
Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly for your dog from pet-friendly ingredients.
Freeze your dog’s water bowl or kong, or add ice cubes to your pet’s bowl.
Fill a paddling pool or spray a hose for your dog to play in – but always supervise them around water.
Make sure that pet snake enclosures are kept secure – and locked if necessary – when unattended, as snakes become more active during hot weather and can be excellent escape artists and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid to make a break for it.
Sign up to join one of the RSPCA’s interactive and accessible ‘Cool Dog Summer’ workshops online to get savvy, and clued up, as the temperatures soar.
It’s not just pet owners who can do their bit to help. Here are some tips on what everyone can do this summer to help wildlife:
Leave a bowl of fresh drinking water in your garden or community green spaces for birds and other wildlife.
Be wildlife-friendly outside. Take care when using a lawn-mower or strimmer – both can be deadly to animals. Hedgehogs in long grass may curl up if they feel threatened and toads tend to squat down rather than run away. Keep pesticides out of reach of animals or switch to non-toxic deterrents.
Search bonfires before burning garden rubbish. Lizards, grass snakes, hedgehogs and toads often seek sanctuary in heaps of garden refuse.
Top up the water levels of ponds and make sure pond fish have access to shaded areas created by aquatic plants.
Snakes are most active during the warmer months; don’t be alarmed if you see one. Most are just passing through and tend to shy away from humans. Help garden wildlife by supplying fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing.
The RSPCA is also inviting people to share photos and videos of their top tips to keep their pets cool, as well as other kind acts for animals, on social media by tagging the RSPCA – to encourage family and friends to get involved in supporting animals this summer.
The RSPCA is urging people to choose kindness this summer and make a difference for animals.
By joining the charity’s Summer of Kindness, animal lovers can take on Seven Acts of Kindness that are easy, family-friendly and make a real difference.