Pet owners have been warned of the fatal risk that high temperatures could pose to small animals, after a number of pets died in the recent heatwaves.
Animal charity Blue Cross, which helps at-risk pets, said that in the past week it has taken in three pets whose animal companions died during the hot weather.
Blue Cross's rehoming centre in Kimpton, Hertfordshire, took in a chinchilla and a rabbit after their furry friends died, and its centre in Burford, Oxfordshire, took in a guinea pig whose sister had died in the heat.
Heartbreaking cases highlight danger
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.”
Three steps to protect pets
The charity urged owners to protect their pets by doing the following: don't place them in direct sunlight, provide them with constant access to fresh, cool water, and check on their health regularly during extreme heat.
Blue Cross also recommends 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, the charity has encouraged owners to check for flystrike, a painful and potentially fatal condition where flies lay their eggs on a live animal.
Signs of heat stress
Blue Cross added that 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 said: “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.”
