WITH the recent arrival of hot weather, we should be reminded that animals suffer and die when temperatures rise.
Dogs die very quickly in hot cars and they should not be left inside them even for very short periods. Opening a window a few inches is not sufficient.
Other animals suffer, too. Rabbits must not be left in a hutch in the glaring sun or inside a sweltering garage or shed. They need a cool, shady place where the air circulates. A hot rabbit can be kept cool by applying cold water gently to his ears. Should your rabbit become listless, or start breathing hard through an open mouth or go limp, get him to a vet immediately.
Smaller animals can be kept cool by opening windows and closing curtains, using a fan (but not pointing it directly at them), refreshing water and providing a frozen water bottle, wrapped in a towel.
Please take good care of our friends this summer.
KATE FOWLER, Head of Campaigns, Animal Aid, Bradford Street, Tonbridge, Kent
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