As the warmer months arrive, the RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch sees a seasonal rise in calls from concerned members of the public. Many involve young wildlife, particularly birds, as well as serious concerns about pets left in hot cars. The charity is grateful that people care enough to reach out, but knowing the right course of action can make all the difference.
Understanding Baby Birds
At this time of year, it is common to come across baby birds on the ground. These are often either nestlings or fledglings, and it is important to understand the distinction. Nestlings are very young birds, typically featherless or sparsely covered, and they belong in the nest. If you find a nestling on the ground, it likely needs help. If you can safely locate the nest, gently returning the bird is the best option. Contrary to popular myth, parent birds will not abandon their young due to human scent.
Fledglings, on the other hand, are slightly older. They have feathers, may be hopping about, and are in the process of learning to fly. While they may look vulnerable, this stage is a natural part of their development. In most cases, fledglings should be left alone. Their parents are usually nearby, continuing to feed and protect them. Intervening unnecessarily can do more harm than good.
The branch understands that it can be difficult to assess the situation, and that is where they can help. While the branch is not able to intake wildlife directly, they can provide guidance and direct you to the appropriate wildlife rescue organisations equipped to care for these animals. If you are ever unsure, do not hesitate to contact them for advice.
Dogs Left in Hot Cars
Alongside wildlife concerns, the charity highlights a recurring and entirely preventable danger: dogs left in hot cars. Every year, as temperatures rise, distressing reports of animals suffering in vehicles are received. It takes only minutes for the temperature inside a car to soar, even on a mild day. On a warm afternoon, the interior of a car can quickly become an oven, leading to heatstroke, organ failure, and tragically, death.
Leaving a window open or parking in the shade does little to mitigate the risk. Conditions can change rapidly, and what may seem harmless can quickly turn fatal. There is simply no safe amount of time to leave a dog unattended in a car during warm weather.
If you encounter a dog left alone in a vehicle and are concerned for its welfare, it is important to act promptly but responsibly. First, assess the dog's condition. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or unresponsiveness. If the animal appears to be in immediate distress, call 999 without delay. The police have the authority to take appropriate action, including gaining entry to the vehicle if necessary.
If the situation is not yet critical, try to locate the owner. This may involve asking nearby shops to make an announcement or checking whether someone is returning to the car. It is important not to put yourself at risk or act unlawfully, but equally important not to ignore a potentially life-threatening situation.
How You Can Help
As a local charity separately registered to the national RSPCA, the branch relies heavily on the generosity of the community to continue its work. Fundraising events play a vital role in supporting the animals in their care, and they are always in need of donated items to help make these events a success.
The charity warmly welcomes donations of bric-a-brac, children's toys, and toiletries. These items are invaluable for stalls and raffles, helping raise funds needed to provide veterinary care, shelter, and support for animals in need. If you have good-quality, unwanted items at home, please consider donating them rather than throwing them away. Your contributions truly make a difference.
As the busy spring and summer period approaches, the charity asks everyone to remain vigilant, compassionate, and informed. Whether it is a baby bird on the ground, a dog in a parked car, or a bag of donated goods, every action, big or small, helps improve animal welfare in the community.
For advice, support, or to learn more about how you can help, please get in touch with the RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch. Together, we can ensure a safer, kinder environment for all animals.
