RSPCA Queensland has reminded pet owners of the need for pet identification due to south-east Queensland’s summer storms.
RSPCA Queensland receives hundred of call about lost pets after every storm and spokesperson Michael Beatty said this is a major concern.
“After every storm we end up with reports of lost and found and traumatised animals, many without identification,” he said.
“Some dogs in particular suffer from what we call storm or firework ‘phobia’.
“Often they will sense the storm coming long before humans can and the noise of the thunder absolutely terrifies them.
“they then try to escape from areas they normally wouldn’t think of leaving”
The RSPCA advises people to keep their animals in a safe and secure environment when leaving them home alone, as Queensland experiences its summer storm season.
“If you know they suffer from storm phobia it’s ideally best to keep them inside,” Mr Beatty said.
“You can also keep the radio on as that will help as well.”
RSPCA senior veterinarian Dr Anne Chester reminded owners of smaller pets are to use common sense when it comes to leaving their animals out during storms adding that the animal welfare group has dealt with cases of guinea pigs that have drowned after being kept in hutches in the back yard during storms.
“It’s all common sense really, but sometimes common sense is sadly lacking,” she said.
People who lose an animal can register their details with RSPCA’s Pet D Tect service by calling 1300 363 736