The RSPCA’s specialist water rescue team is on standby after the Environment Agency issued flood warnings and alerts.

The warnings have been issued for communities across the south west and elsewhere.

A yellow weather warning for rain and wind has been issued by the Met Office as Storm Bert batters the country - particularly in the south and east. 

The RSPCA has approximately 32 specially-trained officers and a fleet of emergency rescue boats that can be launched for water rescues of animals.

The water rescue teams are trained to operate in fast-flowing and contaminated water, and can be called upon to assist in rescuing animals, people and provide assistance to communities affected by flooding.

RSPCA Inspector Jason Finch, National Water Rescue Coordinator for the charity, said: “Floodwater can rise very quickly so if there is a flood warning in your area then act early - make sure you have a plan so that you know how to get your animals out of danger if the worst was to happen and you found yourself caught up in flooding. 

“Horses or livestock in flooded fields is also a big concern whenever there is heavy rain forecast, so while we’ve not launched any rescues yet, we are urging pet owners and farmers to act now to ensure the safety of their animals.

“Don’t put your own life or another’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue and call us for help in an emergency.”

 

RSPCA tips for pet owners during heavy rainfall and flood risk

  • Plan your escape route and keep contact details of people who can help you move your animals in an emergency;
  • Ensure you can be contacted in an emergency - if you have horses or livestock in field attach your contact details to gates so you can be contacted;
  • Make sure you have suitable carriers available for small animals and keep a supply of food in case of evacuation; 
  • Bring small animals inside and, if possible, upstairs, and move food, bedding etc somewhere dry;
  • Put important documents in sealed bag along with photo of pet incase they get lost and ensure microchip details are up-to-date and registered;
  • Move livestock and horses to high ground and ensure you have emergency feed and water supplies;
  • If you have to leave your animals behind, leave them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water. Leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact us or your local Flood Warden immediately to arrange rescue.

 

Residents can stay informed by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for information and flood warnings 24 hours a day, or visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood. Wales residents should seek updates from https://naturalresources.wales.

 

To see all RSPCA flood advice for small pets, horses and livestock, see the charity’s guide online: www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/floods. There's also information on the RSPCA website about what to do if you see an animal in distress.