PET OWNERS URGED TO PROTECT ANIMALS FROM BIRD FLU

South Australian pet owners and backyard poultry keepers are being urged to take precautions against H5 bird flu, with 163 confirmed cases now recorded in wild birds across the state.

The State Government and RSPCA are advising poultry owners to keep feed and water under cover, prevent wild birds from accessing those areas and maintain clean feeding and nesting spaces.

Owners are also being encouraged to provide fresh feed and water each day, treat water sourced from rivers or dams, and separate different poultry species where possible.

The advice also extends to cat and dog owners, with experts saying cats should be kept indoors or in secure outdoor enclosures, while dogs should be kept on leads in areas where wildlife is present and away from sick or dead birds.

South Australians are being asked not to touch sick or dead birds or other wildlife and to report sightings to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 67 888.