The RSPCA is urging animal owners to follow advice to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe as the Met Office warns Storm Austen will bring strong winds across the UK today (October 23) with Storm Boelo bringing severe weather at the weekend.

Most parts of England and Wales are likely to experience the storm with the Met Office placing a yellow weather warning for wind in East Midlands, East of England, London, south-east England, north-west England, south-west England and Wales, until 9pm on the evening of Thursday, October 23.

Experts predict the wet and windy weather will bring wind gusts of up to 55mph (89km/h) in some areas. From tomorrow Storm Boelo will arrive as another deep area of low pressure moves in from the Atlantic which will be felt across the UK.

Animal owners are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and check for warnings, and the RSPCA is also calling on people to take immediate action to ensure the welfare of animals - as strong winds take a toll on the natural habitats of wild fowl and other wildlife.

The RSPCA is urging animal owners to follow advice to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe as the Met Office warns Storm Austen will bring strong winds across the UK today (October 23) with Storm Boelo bringing severe weather at the weekend.

placeholder image — The RSPCA is urging animal owners to follow advice to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe as the Met Office warns Storm Austen will bring strong winds across the UK today (October 23) with Storm Boelo bringing severe weather at the weekend.

RSPCA pet expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “It’s really important to prepare ourselves and our pets for this bout of bad weather, which could possibly lead to flooding and other damage caused by very strong gusts of wind.

“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 rising water.

“We have lots of helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their pets and local wildlife are kept safe, and we’d urge animal lovers to help us by spreading these potentially life-saving messages.“

In the event of an emergency, strong winds or flooding:

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
Keep pets indoors during peak wind gusts to protect them from flying debris and falling branches
Bring small animals inside and move food, bedding etc somewhere dry
Put important documents in sealed bag along with photo of pet in case they get lost and ensure microchip details are up-to-date and registered
Ensure livestock and horses have plenty of feed and water supplies, and adequate shelter
In the event of flooding, 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
For rabbits, guinea pigs or birds, bring them indoors where possible, and secure all outdoor housing, runs, and aviaries, moving them to a sheltered area
Check garden fences, gates, and boundaries for gaps or damage before letting pets outside to prevent escapes

Sam says the storm is not just about preventing dangers for animals - but it’s also a chance for owners to take additional steps in the home to help pets feel as happy, comfortable and entertained as possible, especially when having to spend more time indoors.

Sam added: “From creating dens, to introducing new games, and offering additional enrichment, now is a great time to ensure your pet has what they need with stormy conditions on the way."

The RSPCA said if the worst does happen and if flooding does leave animals in danger, members of the public should be careful not to take risks with their own safety by attempting animal rescues.

It is best to leave that to the experts. The RSPCA’s trained officers are equipped to deal with flood-stricken animals and work as part of Defra’s National Flood Response to help rescue stranded animals.

Sam added: “Don’t put your own life or another’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue and instead call us and other response agencies for help in an emergency.”

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.

To see all RSPCA flood advice for small pets, horses and livestock, see the charity’s guide online.

There's information on the RSPCA website about what to do if you see an animal in distress.