THE RSPCA is urging animal owners to follow urgent advice to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe as Storm Éowyn is set to hit.
Most parts of England and Wales are likely to experience the storm with the Met Office predicting the worst impacts from Storm Éowyn to be felt early tomorrow (Friday).
Yellow weather warnings predict heavy rain and strong and gusty winds, which are expected to reach up to 50mph in the West Midlands.
Animal owners are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and check for warnings, and the animal charity is also calling on people to take immediate action to ensure the welfare of animals – as rising water levels and strong winds take a toll on the natural habitats of wild fowl and other wildlife.
The RSPCA has approximately 32 specially-trained officers and a fleet of emergency rescue boats that can be launched for water rescues of animals.
RSPCA Inspector Jason Finch, national water rescue coordinator said: “It’s really important we once again help our animal friends get through this bout of bad weather this week, which could possibly lead to flooding and other damage caused by very strong gusts of wind. Animals must not be forgotten as the country prepares for Storm Éowyn.
“Floodwater can rise very quickly so if there is a flood warning in your area then act early – make sure you have a plan so that you know how to get your animals out of danger if the worst was to happen and you found yourself caught up in flooding.
“We have lots of helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their pets and local wildlife are kept safe, and we’d urge animal lovers to help us by spreading these potentially lifesaving messages.
“Wild animals can also struggle in stormy weather but people can help them too. For example, they can leave some extra food out for hungry birds above ground level and even provide shelter for ground-nesting birds.”
RSPCA tips for pet owners during heavy rainfall and flood risk:
- Plan your escape route and keep contact details of people who can help you move your animals in an emergency;
- Ensure you can be contacted in an emergency – if you have horses or livestock in field attach your contact details to gates so you can be contacted;
- Make sure you have suitable carriers available for small animals and keep a supply of food in case of evacuation;
- Bring small animals inside and, if possible, upstairs, and move food, bedding etc somewhere dry;
- Put important documents in sealed bag along with photo of pet incase they get lost and ensure microchip details are up-to-date and registered;
- Move livestock and horses to high ground and ensure you have emergency feed and water supplies;
- If you have to leave your animals behind, leave them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water. Leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact us or your local Flood Warden immediately to arrange rescue.
If the worst does happen and if flooding does leave animals in danger, the charity says residents should be careful not to take risks with their own safety by attempting animal rescues.
Jason added: “Don’t put your own life or another’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue and instead call us and other response agencies for help in an emergency.”
Residents can stay informed by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for information and flood warnings 24 hours a day, or click here.
To see all RSPCA flood advice for small pets, horses and livestock, see the charity’s guide here.
