Johannesburg - As the soaring temperatures persist this week, animal owners have been warned to take extra precautions.
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has warned that chained and confined animals are at risk of being affected by the high temperatures.
“With companion animals it is recommended that they are not taken out in vehicles except for emergency situations such as visits to a veterinarian,” the organisation said in a statement.
“Avoid walking or exercising dogs in the heat of the day – and be aware that the heat retained in tarred roads or hot pavements can damage the animals’ paws.
“Rather wait until temperatures drop towards the end of the day or take a break from exercising your animals.”
The NSPCA also recommends animals be given plenty of water and kept in the shade.
Working animals like security dogs or donkeys used for transport should be monitored carefully to avoid dehydration, fatigue and even heatstroke.
On Monday, South African Weather Service forecaster Dipuo Tawana said the heatwave was caused by atmospheric pressure over the central and north-eastern parts of the country.
She said the maximum temperatures in Joburg, Pretoria and Vereeniging would peak between 34ºC and 35ºC.
The hot weather is expected to continue until Thursday.
The Star