Help & advice.

SEASONAL ADVICE

Tips to keep your pets happy this summer

Here are a few tips to help animals enjoy summer as much as you do!

• Never leave animals in cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day, even if it’s just for a short while. When it’s 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be deadly.
• On hot days, walk your dog early morning or late evening when it’s cooler
• Don’t run or cycle with your dog when it’s hot
• If you’re planning a day out with your dog, check the weather forecast to make sure it’s not too hot. If you leave them at home ensure they have plenty of shade, enrichment and fresh water
• Use a pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet’s skin
• Making sure your pets have shade
• Give them constant access to fresh water
• Put ice cubes in their water bowl
• Giving them damp towels to lie on
• Check your pets regularly for flystrike
• Check sheds, greenhouses and summerhouses before closing them up. Cats can find their way into warm areas if they’re looking for a cosy spot, but could get too hot or dehydrated if they get trapped
• Groom your pets regularly – regular grooming in warmer weather can help brush away any dead or excess hair, leaving them with a less dense coat – much better for staying cool!
• You can help the wildlife in your garden by giving animals plenty of fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing.

Garden wildlife awareness

Wildlife friendly gardening

UK wildlife is under threat, but we all have the power to change that.

The RSPCA has created a range of easy-to-do wildlife activities and help welcome wildlife into your garden. You can make a difference, no matter how little the space you have.

• Build a bug hotel
• Make a wildlife rescue box
• Make an eco bird feeder

You can also keep your garden safe for wildlife by:

• Removing netting – put sports nets away after use, keep nets over veg/ponds pulled tight and check them regularly to prevent animals getting tangled
• Before you cut back trees and shrubs, strim long grass or clear garden waste please make sure no animals are sheltering there. Always check bonfire piles before lighting.
• Avoid using pesticides and weed killer in your garden as this can destroy habitats – use natural, organic methods instead.

Cost of living crisis

Help we can offer

If you are finding it tough to care for your pet at the moment, we may be able to help.

We offer support to low-income families within our branch area. If you are receiving benefits or have a household income under £15,000 per year, you can access the following services.

• Vet consultations for just £25 at our Welfare Clinics in Ipswich and Felixstowe, and £15 at our mobile clinics in Stowmarket and Bury St Edmunds
• Heavily subsidised prescription medications for your pet
• Potential financial support for veterinary care (limitations apply)
• Low-cost microchipping from just £15 per cat, £35 per dog
• Sale of low-cost food and pet supplies at our Animal Centre, Ipswich Welfare Clinic and shops
• Pop-up pet food banks (keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details)

DEADLINE WAS 10 JUNE 2024

Cat microchipping becomes law

Since 10th June 2024 it is a legal requirement that all cats are microchipped.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help and are offering cat microchipping for just £10 for one animal, £15 for two at our Martlesham Animal Centre; or £15 per cat and £35 per dog at our Ipswich Welfare Clinic. A friendly, fast and professional service to ensure your cats are up to date!

You don’t have long, so book today! Call us on 0300 999 7321 or email us to get your cats booked in ASAP. Same-day appointments may be available.

BREED SPECIFIC LEGISLATION

XL bully dogs

As of 1 February 2024, it is illegal to own an XL Bully unless the dog is exempted. The deadline for exempting XL Bullies has now passed.

The change in the law means that it is illegal for animal charities to rehome an XL Bully.

Follow the link below for the latest guidance from the RSPCA.