Heat Stress
While we often have the option of air conditioning in our homes, cars and offices, unfortunately our wildlife do not have the same luxuries. We can all help our animal friends by placing some bowls of water out around our gardens and help keep them hydrated.
Over the next few days we will receive hundreds of animals that will come into care because of heat stress. Animals will also start to become easy prey while they are on the ground searching for water.
What you can do
- Put out tubs of water to assist larger animals.
- Make sure you place a plank of wood or branch in the tub so that any small wildlife that get stuck in the tub can get out and not drown.
- Place water in buckets and securely attach them to a tree. Make sure you include the branch so smaller wildlife don't get stuck in the bucket.
If you find an animal
- If you find any nocturnal animal e.g possums, wombats, wandering around during the day, you need to call us immediately.
- If the animal is lethargic and does not try and get away from you, please call us.
- In the case of a possum or bird and you are confident enough to do so, try placing a cool, wet blank over the animal to pick it up and put it in a well ventilated box.
- Offer water in a bowl. Many animals that are suffering from heat stress will not drink on their own. You need to get this animal to an experienced carer as soon as possible so they can start rehydrating the animal.
- Please note down the location of where you found the animal. This is really important so that we can release the animal back to its home when it has recovered.
- Please remember, as a member of public there are penalties for holding onto wildlife without the relevant permit. It is best interest of the animals health to get them to an experienced carer as soon as possible.
Heat Stress Appeal - How you can help
We will require extra resources to cope with the number of animals that will require treatment. You can help us, help them by:
- Making a donation. Over $2.00 are tax deductible
- We will require extra cages or cardboard boxes for the animals to rest in.
- Fresh fruit & vegetables to help feed them.
- Come along to training days or start becoming involved now. Maybe sign up to become a rescuer, transporter or carer
Further Reading
