There is nothing more refreshing than enjoying a glass of ice-cold water on a hot day or sitting under a tree and feeling the cool relief of shade, but it's not just humans who need relief from the sun.
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RSPCA ACT has already received 16 calls from the public since December 1 regarding inadequate water supply for a pet and six regarding inadequate shade.
Chief executive Tammy Ven Dange said heat-related concerns were the most common complaints of animal cruelty the organisation received during summer.
"Owners need to realise that if it's too hot for them to spend the day outside in the sun, it is for their pets too," she said.
Ms Ven Dange said some great ways to keep pets cool in summer were to add ice to their water and ensure they had plenty of shade.
For rabbits and guinea pigs, owners should ensure cages are kept in the shade to prevent their exterior heating up.
Domestic and native birds need access to plenty of water, and the RSPCA recommends domestic birds be left inside on hot days.
For dogs and cats, plenty of shade and water is a necessity – ice blocks can also double as a treat during summer.
It's not just pets at home in the backyard who need a little extra protection from the sun.
Flynn is one of the horses at the National Equestrian Centre, and due to his white blaze and the exposed pink skin on his nose, he wears zinc to protect from sunburn.
National Equestrian Centre director John Lowe said it was essential paddock animals had access to plenty of shade and water.
He said older animals should be especially well looked after in the hotter months, because they were most likely to suffer from heat stress.
Mr Lowe also noted the importance of preparing a bushfire plan for animals.
He said during the 2003 fires the equestrian centre implemented a plan which ultimately saved the lives of horses and their owners.
To report animal welfare concerns, contact RSPCA ACT on 1300 777 221.
