RSPCA inundated with calls during hot spell
During the UK’s six days of summer last week, the RSPCA saw a large increase in the number of calls it received relating to suffering pets.
From Friday 20th July to Thursday 26th July, the RSPCA call centre responded to a total of 607 calls about animals in distress due to the rising temperatures. This compares to a total of 1641 calls throughout the whole of July last year, meaning almost a third of the 2011 calls were taken during those six scorching days.
The majority were concerning dogs that had been left in cars. The temperature inside a vehicle can soar to 47°c within an hour when the outside temperature is just 22°c. Others related to animals left in gardens without any shelter or conservatories without adequate ventilation and a lack of drinking water.
David Bowles, the RSPCA’s Director of Communications, said: “This hot weather may not last long but people must be vigilant about their animals.
“Things can go wrong very quickly and it’s not just inside that you have to be careful – dogs and other smaller pets kept in the garden must have adequate shade and access to clean drinking water.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
