Summer is a challenge for animals. During heatwaves, they are exposed to numerous burns, dehydration, heatstroke and even death. Dogs living on chains are in a particularly difficult situation, often without the possibility of finding shelter in the shade and, no less often, without a drop of drinkable water. We very often observe such conditions, especially in rural areas, which is why we decided that discussing them was the most urgent matter.
Ignorance, thoughtlessness, lack of empathy—there are many causes. The solution we propose is education about proper conditions for keeping animals and about society’s lack of acceptance for neglect committed by their caregivers.
In response to the problem it identified, Fundacja Zwierz has prepared an Action aimed at:
- raising society’s sensitivity to animal neglect,
- encouraging caregivers to take action and improve their pets’ living conditions,
- providing information about animals’ essential needs in summer: access to water, shelter in the shade and the care that an animal’s caregiver owes it.
High temperatures pose a threat not only to human health but also to animals. Dehydration, burns and heatstroke are just some of the dangers resulting from improper care of an animal in summer. Animals living on chains and left to fend for themselves are in particularly difficult conditions, often without a drop of drinkable water. A kennel standing in direct sunlight and covered with sheet metal heats up, and the temperature inside can reach as high as 70ºC.
A metal chain heats up to similar temperatures and can cause burns to an animal’s skin. Therefore, we appeal to everyone to pay even greater attention to animals in summer! We have no doubt that the best thing for an animal is to have someone constantly present with it. However, if an animal stays outdoors, it should have suitable conditions. An animal must have constant access to drinkable water. Do not forget to replace it. If a dog spills the water, secure the bowl in place.
The shelter area should be shaded. If the dog stays in a kennel, it should be insulated and covered with roofing felt or wood. Sheet metal and all other metal objects heat up to high temperatures and can cause burns. If the dog stays in a fenced area, remember that the size of the run should be appropriate for the dog’s size. The dog should be able to move freely and have sufficient living space.
In the Animal Protection Act, the legislator specified that a dog may not be kept on a chain for more than 12 hours a day, and the chain may not be shorter than 3 metres. There is no doubt, however, that it is best to abandon this solution altogether. Failing to provide suitable accommodation protecting the dog from heat and constant access to drinkable water constitutes an offence. This act is punishable by detention or a fine (Article 37(1) in conjunction with Article 9(1) of the Animal Protection Act).
If you permanently keep a dog in conditions that endanger its health or even its life, or cause it suffering, this constitutes the crime of abusing an animal. This act is punishable by up to 3 years’ imprisonment (Article 35(1a) in conjunction with Article 6(2), points 17 and 19, of the Animal Protection Act).