A MARSDEN dog has been found with its mouth taped shut, unable to pant or drink in scorching conditions today.
RSPCA inspectors also seized two Boronia Heights dogs, one of which was dead, tethered to heavy chains with no shelter or water.
This comes while south-east Queensland is experiencing a light-intensity heatwave, expected to bring Beaudesert temperatures up a a peak of 38 degrees this week.
RSPCA Queensland spokesperson Michael Beatty said it was frustrating to see pet owners leaving vulnerable animals in deadly conditions.
“Despite the warnings and despite the help of the media to relay the warnings some people still aren’t listening," he said.
‘Words fail us."
RSPCA Queensland last year received almost 1500 calls about dogs being left in hot cars and more than 2000 calls about animals being left with no shade and in some cases no water.
Greenbank wildlifer carer Alma Searle told the Jimboomba Times she regularly spotted motorists leaving dogs in cars in areas like Greenbank Shopping Centre.
"Some people say it is only for five minutes...well that is five minutes too much," she said.
Mr Beatty said the statistics left a lot to be desired.
“If it’s 30 degrees outside, the temperature inside a car can potentially rise to well over 40 degrees in less than five minutes,” he said.
“A dog can survive for days without food, but in these temperatures, if they don’t have shade or can’t reach water they’ll die."
Pet owners are encouraged to secure their yards so that ropes and chains would not be necessary.
"A rope or a chain can easily become entangled in furniture or plants and that can be fatal," Mr Beatty said.
"We would also recommend that there are at least two to three containers of water in case one gets knocked over.”
Anyone who sees an animal in distress can contact RSPCA's 24/7 Animal Emergency Hotline 1300 ANIMAL.
