B.C. wildlife rescue group reports uptick in calls, hospitalization of animals due to extreme heat
CTV
As high temperature records fall across southern British Columbia, a wildlife rescue group is warning of the heat risks for animals.
As high temperature records fall across southern British Columbia, a wildlife rescue group is warning of the heat risks for animals.
Kimberly Stephens, the hospital manager for the Wildlife Rescue Association of BC, says there has been an uptick in the number of calls and admissions of animals affected by extreme temperatures.
She says some have heat exhaustion, others have been chased out by wildfires, or their food and water resources have dried up because of the extreme heat and drought.
Stephens says that's when they come into contact - and conflict - with domestic pets, vehicles and humans.
Although much of the coastal region is expected to return to seasonal temperatures today, the central and southern regions of the province must endure the heat for a day or two longer.
Stephens suggests people put out shallow water dishes for animals, allowing them to drink without drowning, but advises not to leave out food.
“It's going to affect all wildlife, but some species are a little bit more sensitive to those changes in the environment than other species are,” Stephens said in an interview.
