How a rescue centre keeps animals cool during a heatwave
As temperatures soar, staff at a local sanctuary are finding creative ways to keep its residents comfortable
From frozen treats for dogs to muddy wallows for pigs, staff at a Northamptonshire animal rescue centre are pulling out all the stops to keep their residents cool during the heatwave - and sharing their advice on how to keep animals safe in the heat.
Annie Marriott, manager of the charity Animals In Need, said caring for its animals had become "a full-time job" during the heatwave.
"As much as I adore this amazing weather, it is a full-time job keeping all the animals cool and comfortable," she said.
The charity, which cares for a range of animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, horses and pigs, has adapted its daily routines to help them cope with the heat.
Volunteer dog walkers have been taking animals out early in the morning before temperatures climb, while some dogs have been staying closer to their kennels and shaded runs.
"They've been staying in their kennels, going in the runs, sitting in the shade with our fabulous volunteers, having frozen Kongs and frozen lick mats," Annie said.
"They've got pools and sandpits to help keep them cool."
She echoed the latest advice from the RSPCA, which has warned that dogs can suffer fatal heatstroke in extreme temperatures, and urged owners to skip walks altogether if conditions are too hot.
"Dogs don't need a walk in this heat. Please keep them home."
"Keep the dogs entertained with frozen Kongs, licky mats, or sniffle mats. Give them a paddling pool in the garden. It's so much safer and happier for them."
She said owners should watch for signs of overheating including excessive panting, drooling and lethargy.
"If you're concerned they are overheating, please cover them in cool water and contact your vet as soon as possible. It can be life-threatening."
But Annie said it was important not to forget other animals.
She said rabbits and smaller pets should have access to shade, fresh water and cool places to rest.
"Make sure rabbits and small animals have got shade, cold vegetables, ice packs and cold tiles to lay on in their pens," she said.
Cats, meanwhile, were generally good at regulating their own temperature.
"Cats love the sun and usually like to lay in it, but they are sensible enough to move into the shade when they get uncomfortable."
The charity is also taking special measures to care for its larger residents. Ponies are seeking shelter beneath trees and in field shelters, while pigs are making use of muddy wallows.
"We have 17 pigs here, and pigs don't sweat, so they have to have a cool muddy wallow to keep their body temperature regulated, otherwise they overheat fast," Annie said.
"But again, they're clever enough to seek out their wallow and jump in it."
As well as caring for pets, she is encouraging people to think about wildlife struggling in the heat.
"Fresh, cool water is vital for all living beings," she said.
"So please pop water out for the wildlife too. It can literally save their lives."
The charity has also been giving many of its animals watermelon as a way of helping keep them hydrated.
With temperatures expected to remain high, Annie said a few simple actions could make a significant difference for animals across Northamptonshire.
Anyone concerned about an animal's welfare, or wanting to report suspected neglect or cruelty, should contact their local RSPCA branch or report a concern via their website.
To find out more about the work of Animals In Need, visit www.animals-in-need.org.