RSPCA 'stress' warning for pet owners with small animals in hot weather

RSPCA 'stress' warning for pet owners with small animals in hot weather The animal welfare charity has issued the warning amid the 38°C British heatwave Small animal owners are being urged to look out for their pets amid high summer temperatures. The RSPCA has issued an alert for pet owners. In a warning shared on social media, the charity said small animals are 'highly susceptible to heat stress.' The alert comes amid record-breaking temperatures this week. The Met Office suggests the UK set a new June maximum temperature record for the second consecutive day on Thursday, with 36.7°C recorded in Somerset. A red warning for extreme heat remains in place across some areas in England on Friday, with temperatures forecast to reach as high as 38°C Posting on Facebook this week, the RSPCA alerted pet owners that rabbits and other small animals could be at risk. The charity said: "Look out for your small furry friends this summer. Rabbits and small animals are highly susceptible to heat stress when it's hot and humid - which is why knowing how to keep them safe and cool during warm spells can be vital. "Providing extra water, keeping enclosures out of direct sunlight, and regular grooming are just a few small changes you can make to support your companions. How do you help your rabbit during the summer? Let us know in the comments." In response, several animal lovers shared their favourite tips to help fellow pet owners. For example, a commenter said: "My girl loves her ice bottles. When I let her free roam the garden (under supervision) she hops around for a while, digs her holes then decides to take herself back to her hutch to lay on her bottles. It amazed me that she instantly knew how to use them! They are very good problem solvers!" Someone else shared: "My elderly bunny has been bought inside during the daytime, all curtains closed, lots of water and veg run under the tap. A frozen water bottle in the inside run (which he avoids at all costs lol). "About 8pm, he goes back into his large home and outside run (fox-proofed)." Another reply read: "Exactly the same for my nine-year-old bun. He has a cooling fan in the room too. Must be horrid for them." According to the RSPCA website, there are several steps that owners can take to help care for their pets. The charity explained: "Keep pets and cages, runs or hutches out of direct sunlight. "Don't house pets in greenhouses, conservatories and other glass buildings as they can heat up very quickly and become dangerous. "Give them extra water - make sure you give your pets extra water during warmer weather, as they'll drink more. Provide plenty of shade in their enclosures - remember, the sun moves across during the day so areas that were shaded in the morning could be in full sun in the afternoon!"