GSPCA Continues Responding to Animals at Risk During Extreme Heat
The GSPCA is continuing to respond to concerns about animals being left in vulnerable situations during the current spell of hot weather in Guernsey, with calls ranging from animals left without adequate water, pets kept outdoors in direct sunshine, and dogs left in vehicles.
The charity is reminding islanders that regardless of whether a vehicle is parked in the shade or a bowl of water has been left for a dog, pets can still be placed at serious risk during periods of high temperatures.
GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne said:
"The hot weather can be enjoyable for both people and pets, but it can quickly become dangerous if simple precautions are not taken. We are urging everyone to think carefully about their animals' welfare during the heat and to avoid putting them in situations where they could suffer from heat stress or heatstroke.”
"One of the most important messages is not to walk dogs during the hottest parts of the day. If you cannot comfortably place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds, then it is too hot for your dog's paws. Pavements, roads and artificial surfaces can become incredibly hot and can cause painful burns and injuries.”
"Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower, make sure they always have access to fresh drinking water and cool shaded areas, and never leave them in vehicles.”
"Wildlife can also struggle in hot weather. Something as simple as putting out a shallow dish of fresh water in your garden can make a huge difference for birds, hedgehogs and other wildlife. Please ensure wildlife can easily get in and out of any water containers and refresh the water regularly."
The GSPCA is also encouraging employers and pet owners to support this Friday's #BringYourDogToWorkDay, which can be an excellent way of helping dogs stay safe and comfortable during hot weather.
Steve added:
"For many dogs, spending the day in a cool office or shaded workplace with their owner is far preferable to being left alone in a warm environment. #BringYourDogToWorkDay is a great opportunity to raise funds for animal welfare while ensuring dogs have company, comfort and a cooler place to spend the day."
The charity is also reminding owners that some common heat-relief methods can actually be harmful.
"Some people think placing wet towels over their dogs, but this can trap heat and prevent effective cooling. Instead, lay damp towels on the floor and allow your dog to choose whether to lie or sit on them. Always ensure pets have access to cool areas and fresh water."
Senior Animal Care and Welfare Assistant Seb Goman said the GSPCA has already attended a number of heat-related welfare concerns in recent days.
"Over the last few days I have attended several reports of animals that were potentially at risk due to the hot weather. Thankfully, after speaking with owners and providing advice, the situations were resolved and the animals' needs were met.”
"However, we would much rather see animals provided with everything they need before concerns arise and before the GSPCA has to attend. Prevention is always better than intervention.”
"If you see an animal that you believe may be at risk, or if you are unsure about how best to care for your pet during the hot weather, please contact the GSPCA on 257261. We are always happy to offer advice and support."
"Simple measures such as ensuring constant access to fresh water, shade and cool resting areas can make a huge difference during periods of hot weather."
The GSPCA would like to thank the public for continuing to report welfare concerns and reminds everyone that a little planning and common sense can help keep both pets and wildlife safe during the current heatwave.
For advice or to report an animal welfare concern, contact the GSPCA on 257261.
Check out more on the #GSPCABiggestBuildAppeal – https://www.gspca.org.gg/page/gspcabiggestbuildappeal
To donate to our work and the other animals in our care https://giving.gg/donate/charity/2/Guernsey-Society-for-the-Prevention-of-Cruelty-to-Animals-(GSPCA)
To see animals looking for new homes
https://www.gspca.org.gg/animals
To see our youtube channel and lots of videos please visit https://www.youtube.com/@TheGuernseySPCA
To see events, ways to support and animals in need please see our latest blog https://www.gspca.org.gg/blog
Upcoming events
- Microchip Month June 2026
- Take Your Dog to Work Day Friday 26th June 2026
- Viaer Marchi Monday 6th July 2026
- Kitten Day 10th July 2026
- World Snake Day 16th July 2026
- Guinea Pig Appreciation Day 16th July 2026
- Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) 23rd – 27th July 2026
- Summer Guided Tours July/August 2026 to be confirmed
- South Show GSPCA Dog Show Saturday 8th August 2026
- West Show 12th-13th August 2026
- World Lizard Day 14th August 2026
- North Show 19th-20th August 2026
- International Dog Day 26th August 2026
- World Animal Month October 2026
- World Animal Day 4th October 2026
- Feral Cat Day 16th October 2026
- National cat Day 29th October 2026
- Halt Term Spooky Tours October 2026 to be confirmed
- Dog First Aid Course 6.30pm - 8.45pm Thursday 12th November 2026 Ref – Dog12/11
- Cat First Aid Course 6.30pm - 8.45pm Thursday 26th November 2026 Ref – Cat26/11
- Possible Christmas Themed Animal Discovery Trail November/December 2026 to be confirmed with possible Ball
- World Wildlife Conservation Day 4th December 2026
- Festive Tours December/January 2026/7 to be confirmed
Steve continued “There are many ways to support the work of the GSPCA.”
“Our BIGGEST BUILD is now underway and we are desperately looking for support and to help in anyway please do get in touch and check out this link https://www.gspca.org.gg/blog/gspca-biggestbuild-begins-demolition-underway-%E2%80%93-buying-brick-sponsorship-can-you-help .”
“To become an Angel Pen Pal Sponsor donating each month to help the hundreds of animals in our care which you can do by downloading this form - http://www.gspca.org.gg/sites/default/files/Angel%20sponsor%20form%20special%202018%20new.pdf or to become a Corporate Angel Pen Pal form for your business to sponsor animals in our care each year please click here http://www.gspca.org.gg/sites/default/files/Corporate%20Angel%20Pen%20Pal%20sponsor%20formnew.pdf .”
“To think of helping animals and our work in your legacy or will please check out https://www.gspca.org.gg/about/gifts-wills-and-funding .”
“For those from those want to give CSR time and skills to those wanting to help sponsor or support something from our Wish List at the GSPCA http://www.gspca.org.gg/about/our-plans-wish-list .”
“If your group or business would like to find out about spending a day at the Shelter please go to -
http://www.gspca.org.gg/about/corporate-and-group-days “
“For other ways your business can help us here at the GSPCA please go to -
http://www.gspca.org.gg/about/how-your-business-can-help-gspca-corporate-sponsorship “
“If you would like to volunteer then to find out more details here -
http://www.gspca.org.gg/about/volunteers or to complete the volunteer application form please check out https://service.sheltermanager.com/asmservice?account=gspca&method=online_form_html&formid=14 .”
"We also have vacancies at the GSPCA and to find out more please visit https://www.gspca.org.gg/about/vacancies ."
"For lots of ways to support our work please visit https://www.gspca.org.gg/page/gspca-celebrating-150-years ."
“To visit our facebook page check out this link please click here .”
“To visit our x page please click here .”
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