The festive season is a great time to celebrate with your pets, but it’s also a time to remember their welfare.
“Since the beginning of November our Inspectors have received 116 calls reporting heat stress and so far this year we’ve had 105 calls about animals being left in hot cars,” said RSPCA Qld spokesperson Emma Lagoon.
“Cars can quickly turn into ovens, so don’t leave your pet behind when you duck into the shops. In a matter of minutes your pet can suffer heatstroke and die if left in a car.”
As temperatures rise, it’s imperative to ensure your pets of all types have access to ample shade and water. RSPCA Qld has compiled some cool tips for your pet here.
“It’s a timely reminder for dog owners to never leave your pet tethered. The sun moves during the day, if your dog can’t access shade or water they will perish. Too often our Inspectors have been called out to rescue dogs in distress only to find it’s too late.”
Last December an RSPCA Inspector was called out to a critical job where a dog was suffering from heat exhaustion, tethered to a clothesline. No one was home and no water or shelter was provided for the dog. Despite rescuing the dog and rushing him to the vet, it was too late.
“We do not want to see a repeat of these situations this Summer, or any time of year.”
If you see an animal in distress, contact the RSPCA’s 24/7 Animal Emergency Hotline 1300 ANIMAL.
If you’re travelling with your pet this Christmas, secure your mate!
"Over the weekend, a dog jumped from a ute in the Scenic Rim and despite being tethered, unfortunately was run over and sadly passed away. It's a tragic reminder for all pet owners travelling with pets this festive season to take extra precautions.”
Just last month a dog fell out of a ute canopy window in Cairns.
For more tips on pet safety, toxic foods, travelling with your pet, and more visit the RSPCA website. For more information on appropriate ute travel with pets, visit the DAF website.
