We are reminding residents to take extra care of pets and animals with high temperatures forecast this week.  Hot weather can cause significant discomfort and distress to animals; and prolonged exposure may lead to serious illness, injury or death. 

The council is encouraging the community to take simple but effective steps to keep animals safe and comfortable during periods of extreme heat.

Cllr Tony Fairclough, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Regulatory Services, said:  "As temperatures rise, it's vital that we all take simple steps to protect the welfare of our pets and local wildlife. Animals can struggle to cope in hot weather, so making sure they have access to fresh water, shade and cooler environments can make a life-saving difference. I’d also urge residents to remain vigilant and never leave animals unattended in vehicles, even for a short time."

Keep your pets cool and comfortable

Pets need a constant supply of fresh water and plenty of shade; you can use towels or blankets to help provide this. Pet birds in aviaries should also have shaded spaces and access to water for bathing, and some species will benefit from a light misting.

Cooling aids such as damp towels or cooling pads can help regulate body temperature, with many pets including dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, choosing to rest on these surfaces. Some dogs may also enjoy chewing ice cubes as a way to cool down.

For larger animals, such as horses and donkeys, it’s essential they have access to shelter. This could be from trees, hedgerows or field shelters. It’s vital they also have a continuous supply of fresh drinking water.

Look out for more vulnerable animals

Certain animals are more at risk in hot weather. Very young or elderly pets, as well as those who are pregnant or unwell, may require additional care.

Dog breeds with shortened noses (otherwise known as brachycephalic breeds) such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers and Bullmastifs, are particularly prone to breathing difficulties and heatstroke.

Some cat breeds also suffer from this, for example Persians, British Shorthair and Burmese. Pets with long, thick coats will need extra support such as clipping or cooler environments. Breeds include Angora and Rex rabbits, Husky, Malamute and Labrador Retriever dogs, or Persian and Maine Coon cats.

Supporting local wildlife

Hot, dry conditions can make it difficult for wildlife to find water. Residents can help by placing shallow dishes of fresh water at ground level for animals such as hedgehogs, foxes and badgers.

A shallow dish with pebbles (kept out of dogs’ reach) can also support pollinators like bees, providing a safe place to drink. Bird baths should be cleaned regularly, with water replaced daily, to reduce the risk of disease.

Take care when walking dogs

It’s not just the air temperature we need to consider, the temperature of ground surfaces can be more than 20 degrees hotter. This is uncomfortable for dogs to be walked on. Darker surfaces such as tarmac, will heat up more quickly and be even hotter. Dog walking is best limited to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are lower and surfaces have cooled.

Never leave animals in vehicles

Animals must never be left unattended in cars or trailers, even for a short time. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly and become fatal. Keep any journeys to a minimum and plan for an emergency. For example, pack an umbrella for shade, a cold bottle of water and a bowl.

Who to contact

If you see a dog in a hot car, call the police on 999.

If you are worried about the welfare of any animal that you see, you should contact Surrey Police or contact the RSPCA.

If you are worried about your pet’s health, you should contact your vet as soon as possible.

You can read about our new Animal Charter by visiting the link on our webpage Animal Welfare | Waverley Borough Council.