Pet owners are being warned of the potentially fatal danger high temperatures pose to small animals.
Blue Cross, a charity which helps at-risk pets, has taken in three pets in the last week whose animal companions died during the hot weather.
The charity’s rehoming centre in Kimpton, Hertfordshire, took in a chinchilla and a rabbit while its centre in Burford, Oxfordshire, took in a guinea pig whose sister had died in the heat.
Kellie Brooks, centre manager at Blue Cross Hertfordshire, said: “These are heartbreaking cases that highlight just how dangerous hot weather can be for small pets.
“They can deteriorate incredibly quickly in high temperatures, and sadly the consequences can be fatal.”
The organisation urged owners to protect their pets from direct sunlight, provide them with constant access to fresh, cool water, and to check on their health regularly during extreme heat.
They also recommend that owners fill empty bottles with water and freeze them to put in their pets’ enclosures to cool them down.
For rabbits and guinea pigs, it encourages owners to check for flystrike, a painful and potentially fatal condition where flies lay their eggs on a live animal.
The charity said pet owners should seek advice from a vet immediately if their pet shows signs of heat stress – these include lethargy, panting or excessive drooling.
Ms Brooks added: “With a long summer of hot weather forecast, we’re asking everyone to spare a thought for their small pets. A few simple precautions really can make the difference between life and death. If you’re worried about your pet coping in the heat, don’t wait – seek advice as soon as possible.”
How to keep your dog safe this summer
Unlike humans, our four-legged friends aren’t as effective at regulating their body heat, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions during those uncomfortable sweltering days.
Some tips from the experts include:
- Never leave your dog alone in a car
- Provide constant access to cool, fresh water
- Be extra cautious at the beach or near open water
- Don’t put a damp towel over your dog in the heat
- Adjust your walk to early morning or late evening
- Avoid hot pavements
- Check your home is cool
- Adjust how vigorous walks and activities with your dogs are
- Offer frozen treats
- Look out for the warning signs
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