19 January 2022

RSPCA WA has issued a dire warning after a dog was found dead yesterday from the effects of Perth’s heatwave.

He was the second to succumb to soaring summer temperatures in less than a month.

Inspectors were called to Kelmscott yesterday following reports of a dog tied up in a yard with no access to shade or water. By the time they arrived, it was too late.

Yesterday’s tragic outcome was a carbon copy of the death of a dog in Cloverdale last month, tethered in the full sun with no water.

A similar report from Bunbury around Christmas time had a happier ending but could just as easily have ended in death.

RSPCA WA says dogs should only ever be tethered as a short term or temporary solution and never in extreme heat. If dogs are tied up, they should always have access to shade and water.

With temperatures continuing to soar across WA, the RSPCA is again pleading with pet owners to remember that animals need protection from extreme weather too.

Inspector Manager, Kylie Green, said just a few simple actions can keep pets safe and comfortable.

‘Make sure pets have access to shade, or better yet, bring them inside in the cool,’ Kylie said.

‘Give them access to plenty of cool water—always more than one source in case one gets knocked over—and consider setting up a clam pool or similar for them to splash around in.

‘Bring smaller pets inside, including birds, and give rabbits, guinea pigs and rats cool toys like frozen water bottles to lie on.

‘Don’t walk your dog in the heat of the day—remember, if you can’t leave your hand on the road, footpath or sand at the beach comfortably for five seconds, then their paws will burn.

‘Finally, leave your pets at home. We have had 140 reports of dogs left in hot cars already this summer which is just astounding.

‘Dogs die in hot cars in a matter of minutes and even the shortest spells can leave them with heatstroke or permanent organ damage.’

RSPCA WA is reminding people that it’s an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 to cause unnecessary harm to an animal.

Offenders can be prosecuted and face up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine.

The RSPCA relies on the community to report incidents of suspected cruelty and neglect. Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or online here.