Animal charities warn of hot weather risks

Higher temperatures are expected in the coming days, with 34C (93F) expected on Monday in Guernsey and Jersey

An animal charity has been "extremely busy" with calls from people reporting pet welfare issues during the "extreme warm weather".

The GSPCA said it had received calls about dogs being locked in cars, being walked on hot pavements and pets being left in direct sunlight.

In Jersey, the JSPCA urged people to put out water for garden wildlife.

Temperatures are expected to soar to 34C (93F) on Monday in Guernsey and Jersey.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said "we cannot forget the risks to our pets".

He said: "We urge all pet owners to stop and think and ensure that their pet is not put in a life-threatening situation with this lovely sunny warm weather."

The GSPCA said when temperatures reached 25C (77F), pavements could be as hot as 52C (126F), "causing real harm to your dog's feet".

It offered the following advice:

• Seven second rule - test the heat of the pavement on the back of your hand for seven seconds, if it is too hot then do not walk your dog

• Do not leave your pet in the car as the inside temperate can "soar to 47C (117F) within 60 minutes"

• Keep your pet in a cool and ventilated environment, provide a cool shaded spot where they can rest during hot peaks

• Make sure they have a good supply of water

• Do not leave pets in a glass conservatory or caravan as they can become "unbearably hot"

• Walk your dog in the early hours of the morning or the late evening so they still get exercised

The JSPCA said islanders should also look out for wild animals in the heat.

"It's not just us and our pets who get warm in the hot weather. The wildlife in our gardens can also struggle in the heat," it said.

The charity advised islanders to leave fresh water in something shallow for animals to drink from with no risk of them drowning, and leave plants and bushes overgrown to "provide shelter for wildlife".

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