As daytime temperatures across England this week are set to reach 30ᐤC and yellow heat alerts are put in place, RSPCA Assured is offering farmers tips on keeping their animals cool in the heat.
Hot weather can cause serious welfare problems for farm animals and the next few days are predicted to bring some of the highest temperatures of the summer. Taking steps to keep your animals cool is vital over the coming days, said Emilie Wix, head of RSPCA Assured’s new farming engagement team.
“Knowing how to spot the signs of heat stress and how to prevent it is essential for the welfare of farmed animals.” Emilie said.
“The RSPCA welfare standards contain important guidance on how to manage hot weather for individual species. We hope a quick refresher of some of these tips serves both as a useful checklist for our members as temperatures rise, as well as being helpful reminders for farmers outside of the RSPCA Assured scheme.”
It is essential to make sure that housed animals have plenty of air flow and their housing is well ventilated. Farmers can achieve this by bringing in additional fans to keep air moving and help reduce the risk of heat stress.
The transportation of animals in hot weather should be avoided unless this is absolutely necessary. Where possible, this should be done during the coolest part of the day – night time is usually the best for this movement. Transport, as well as handling, imposes additional stress on animals and this makes it more difficult for them to cope with the heat.
Hens and chickens need plenty of spaces to dust bathe which helps them to cool down. Dust bathing areas should be located in well ventilated areas or in shaded areas on the free-range area to help the hens to stay cool.
“If an animal appears to be suffering from heat stress and you are unsure what to do, you should seek immediate advice from your vet,” added Wix.