Rise in animal concerns this summer, says charity

A rescue charity has reported an increase in reports of animal welfare concerns due to hot weather.

Guernsey experienced mean temperatures about 3C (5.4F) above the average between 1 June and 15 August, according to Jersey Met.

The GSPCA said there had "rarely been a day" this summer without reports of dogs being exercised in high temperatures, pets kept in poorly ventilated areas and wildlife struggling in dry conditions.

Manager Steve Byrne said the charity dealt with "no serious cases" but it "certainly had more concerns and reports than in recent years".

Byrne said the increase in reports was an "encouraging trend" because it showed more people were aware of the dangers posed by hot weather.

"Due to the sustained long period of hot weather there has rarely been a day where we haven't had reports or concerns raised," he said.

"There is now much greater awareness of the dangers of hot cars, hot pavements and the risks associated with exercising dogs during the middle of the day."

The charity manager said there was also a rise in people seeking advice for other wildlife including young birds and hedgehogs this summer.

"Many inquiries are preventative in nature, which is positive, as owners are seeking advice before a situation becomes an emergency," he said.

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