Extra care needed on hot days

BAD IDEA: Napier SPCA receives up to four calls a day about dogs trapped in hot cars .

The Napier SPCA has been receiving up to four calls a day from people worried about animal welfare this holiday season.

"There has been a real spike in dogs in cars," said regional manager Bruce Wills.

"We had quite a mild spring and then all of a sudden summer hits.

"It is quite time consuming for us because we have to wait with the dog until the owner gets back."

SPCA branches around the North Island said the biggest issues this summer were dogs left in cars and unwanted kittens and puppies.

Most people love their pets, but they can make bad decisions about their care, said SPCA chief executive Ric Odom.

De-sexing animals, especially cats, is a necessity for owners, said Mr Odom.

"It's the responsible thing to do. We have such a problem in New Zealand with unwanted animals."

Mr Odom's said the advice about dogs and cars was simple: "Do not leave your animal in the car on a summer's day."

He said people may only intend to be away from their car for a short time but there was every chance of being held.

"Then they come back to find their pet severely distressed or worse."

All animals - especially dogs - needed a lot of water and could easily overheat.

Mr Odom said the majority of New Zealanders were responsible owners and some just needed a bit more education.

"And some of those that do not are not bad people they just do not think," he said.

NZME