Our role

The state and territory member Societies provide services to animals in need through their shelters and inspectorates. In the national office, RSPCA Australia works to influence animal welfare policy, practice and legislation across the country
Go to Our role

Key issues

The RSPCA advocates for the welfare of animals across a number of industries, issues and platforms. Help from our supporters is important to progress change. Working together is key.
Go to Key issues
better than live export hero banner
Priority issue
On 1 July 2024, the Federal Government…
Live sheep export

Support us

Whether you're an individual or a business, there are multiple ways you can support the RSPCA
Go to Support us
An animal in the RSPCA care being cared for by an RSPCA vet
Donate now to support your local RSPCA and make a difference to animal welfare across Australia
Donate

About

The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.
Go to About
about us national statistics
Read our National Statistics
Compiled on a national basis by RSPCA…
Annual statistics

Adopt

By choosing adoption, you’ll not only have the chance to make a friend for life, but you’ll be giving an animal a second chance and helping support the RSPCA.
Go to Adopt
adopt a pet logo
Visit the Adopt A Pet website
Make a difference to a pet’s life today.
Search Adoptapet
Subscribe now! Keep up to date with the latest animal welfare news

3 January 2013

With scorching temperatures forecast the RSPCA is reminding South Australians that animals

can die from heat stress.

RSPCA (SA) Chief Inspector Simon Richards said people need to take extra care of their pets in

coming days.

“We need people to exercise common sense and to be aware of the dangers,” he said.

“Every summer we receive dozens of calls about dogs left in hot cars. This is extremely

dangerous for the animals involved.

“The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, even if the windows are down, and dogs can

perish in a matter of minutes. So please, leave your animal at home.

“People who allow their pets to suffer can be charged under the Animal Welfare Act and face up

to two years behind bars or a maximum $20,000 fine.

The RSPCA recommends the following to keep your pet cool and comfortable.

If possible, leave your pet inside during the day. If you’re uncomfortable in the heat,

chances are they are too.

If they have to remain outside, ensure they have access to plenty of shade and water.

Help dogs and pocket pets to stay cool for longer by leaving blocks of ice outside, in

addition to their water bowls.

Don’t exercise your pet in the middle of the day. They can overheat very quickly and

burn their paws on the hot pavement.

Keep a closer eye on livestock. They find it more difficult to escape the heat, so require

lots of water and shade.

If you suspect your animal is suffering from heat stress please find some means to cool it down,

provide fresh clean water and seek veterinary help ASAP.

If you are aware of an animal in distress call the RSPCA 24 hour hotline on 1300 4777 22.

subscribe box

Stay informed on big issues and how you can help improve animal welfare across Australia.

Subscribe today and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest campaigns, events and news.