Storm Eunice: RSPCA issues tips for animals

The RSPCA is urging the public to ensure the safety of both pets Storm Eunice looms

The RSPCA has issued advice to pet owners in the event of flooding and strong winds as Britain prepares for an Eunice storm attack.

This is due to strong winds and heavy rainfall from Storm Dudley.

The Meteorological Bureau issued a red weather warning tomorrow (Friday, February 18) in south-west and south Wales as forecasters forecast strong winds of up to 90 miles per hour.

Amber warnings are in effect in the rest of the South of England, East of England, Midlands and Wales, and yellow warnings for snow and wind in the north and parts of Scotland.

RSPCA spokeswoman Amy Oakelford said: “Storm Dudley hit parts of the UK hard earlier this week, and now forecasters are predicting that storm“ Eunice ”could be even stronger.

“We encourage pet owners to monitor the forecast of where they live and plan ahead to ensure the safety of their animals.”

There are a number of flood and flood warnings across the UK, so pet owners are advised to make a plan.

Amy added: “Make sure you have a plan so you know how to save your family and animals from danger if a flood affects you.

“The flood could rise quickly, so we encourage people to act earlier and never put themselves at risk to help the animal, but call for help from our rescuers on 0300 1234 999.”

Make sure you have a supply of food and medicine for your pets

Make sure cats have access to a home or warm interior where they can stay dry and avoid bad weather – if the weather gets extreme, you can keep cats inside

Plan your dog walks in the worst weather and avoid dangerous places

If your dog is elderly, sick or cold, buy a special coat for her to keep warm

Wear reflective clothing if darkening or poor visibility

Provide pets with a quiet and safe place to retreat if they think the wind or storm is terrible

Provide pets outdoors, such as rabbits, with plenty of extra bedding and provide for poultry such as chickens and ducks, a safe dry shelter

Move pets inside or in a suitable outbuilding if the weather becomes extreme

Make a flood rescue plan and make sure you have suitable carriers for small animals, as well as collars, floods and carriers for cats and dogs if you need to evacuate

Cover the horses and ponies and make sure they have proper shelter or move them to the stables when the weather is extreme

Arrange with a trusted, experienced friend to take care of your horse or pet in case you can’t reach them due to fallen trees or flooding

Consider leaving your contact information at the gate in case of an emergency

Wildlife can have difficulty finding food and water in extreme weather conditions, and can get lost or off course – leave food and water for wildlife and seek help if you find an injured or stranded animal.

The RSPCA is part of Defra’s national flood response team and has about 100 officers trained and equipped to deal with flood-affected animals, as well as a fleet of 35 inflatable boats.

The team can be put on standby to respond to flood emergencies, rescue animals and people, and support flood evacuations.

If your area is flooded, you should consider moving the animals to higher places (if outside) or moving pets inside – preferably upstairs.

If you need to leave pets, make sure they have plenty of food and water, leave alerts on the outside doors that let you know there are pets inside that need help, and contact your local flood guard immediately.

Never endanger your own life by trying to save an animal.

If you are concerned about an animal in stormy weather or flooding, write down the location and time and call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 for advice.

To help the RSPCA continue to rescue, rehabilitate and relocate animals in desperate need of care, visit its website. https://www.rspca.org.uk/or call the donation line at 0300 123 8181.