News
Warning from RSPCA about leaving pets in hot vehicles as temperatures soar
WITH temperatures soaring across Wales, people are being reminded to protect their pets and not leave them in hot vehicles.
Every year animals are harmed or die by being left alone in cars and vans during warmer weather, even for a very short while.
With Great British staycation is here to stay, up to 30 million Brits are expected to holiday in the UK in 2022, It’s likely many people will be taking our four-legged friends along. But dogs aren’t welcome everywhere, so the RSPCA is urging people to plan outings carefully.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “A little forward thinking could save your dogs from heatstroke this summer.”
“Never leave your dog alone in a car on a warm day. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, dial 999.”
“Many people think it’s ok to leave their dog in the car if they’re parked in the shade or the windows are open.”
“But a car can become as hot as an oven, even when the weather doesn’t feel that warm.”
“When it’s 22 degrees Celsius outside, the car could reach an unbearable 47 degrees within an hour. It’s very dangerous and will cause your dog suffering and harm.”
What to do if you see a dog in a car on a warm day
First, assess the dog’s condition. If they’re showing any signs of heatstroke dial 999 at once.
If the dog’s condition is critical, and the police haven’t arrived yet, your instinct will be to break into the car to free them. But please be aware that this could be classed as criminal damage. You may need to defend your actions in court, so please be sure you’re doing the right thing. Legally, you can commit damage if you believe the car owner would consent to it if they knew the dog was in danger.
If you’re sure you need to free the dog, tell the police what you intend to do and why. Take photos or videos of the dog. Are there any other witnesses? Take their names and telephone numbers.
Don’t be afraid to dial 999. If it’s an emergency, we may not be able to get to you – and the dog – quickly enough. And as we have no powers of entry, we’d need to ask the police to help us rescue the dog. Don’t worry – the police will soon let us know if the dog needs our help.
What do I do once the dog is free?
Check if the dog is showing signs of heatstroke or is in distress. If they are, immediately follow our emergency first aid advice. This could mean the difference between life and death for the dog.
How can I help a dog who appears OK?
If the dog doesn’t seem in distress, you can leave them in the car and follow these actions.
Work out how long the dog has been in the car. A ‘pay and display’ ticket could help.
Make a note of the car’s registration. If the owner returns but you still feel they’d put the dog in danger, you can tell the police.
If you’re at a shop, venue or event, ask staff to alert the owner over the loudspeaker.
Make sure you, or someone else, stays with the dog. Monitor their condition. If they get worse be prepared to call 999.
You can call our cruelty line for advice on 0300 1234 999. But if a dog is in danger, dialing 999 should be your first step.
Crime
Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest
A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.
Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.
The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.
During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”
The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.
Community
Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop
ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.
Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”
Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.
Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.
Community
Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market
MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.
The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.
There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.
If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.
Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!
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