Kate Fowler, of Animal Aid, Kent, writes:
Now that summer is here, we should remember that animals suffer and die in hot weather. Already, Animal Aid has had to call the police to smash the window on a car to release a dog which was sweltering inside.
Rabbits, for example, must not be left in a hutch in glaring sun or inside a sweltering garage or shed. They need a cool shady place.A hot rabbit can be kept cool by applying cold water to his ears.
Animals like hamsters, rats and gerbils can be kept cool by opening windows, closing curtains, and giving water.