People working near Wagga’s Livestock Marketing Centre on Saturday noticed a flock of about 100 sheep that were left in a holding pen without shade or water. 

It is believed the sheep were purchased on Thursday and left in a yard with water overnight before being moved at about 5.30pm on Friday, as temperatures across the state soared.

One of the animals is believed to have died of heat-related causes before they were given water, food and shelter.

While the incident sparked outrage on social media, it wasn’t the only report of neglect from the weekend.

About 4.30pm on Friday, police at Hay found two cages containing small animals left in broad daylight without water. According to Inspector John Aichinger from Deniliquin Local Area Command, one cage contained dead animals and the other stressed animals. 

“Police believe this was due to the extreme temperatures, which exceeded 45 degrees,” he said.

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