People working near Wagga’s Livestock Marketing Centre on Saturday noticed a flock of 184 sheep that were left in a holding pen without shade or water. The workers found a trough of water for the sheep and called council and LMC management.

RSPCA inspector Stuart Swan said it was obvious animal owners misjudged how severe last weekend’s extreme heat would be.

“That only one sheep died is amazing, given the conditions,” he said.

“The combination of the people who reported the incident and the action plan put in place meant the potential loss of animals was greatly reduced.”

It is believed the sheep were purchased at the LMC 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.

Wagga City Council has handed over all supporting documentation and CCTV footage, according to a statement released on Monday night.

“The City of Wagga Wagga will be taking firm interim action against the owner of a mob of sheep left unattended during extreme heat at the LMC, pending the outcome of an RSPCA investigation,” the statement said.

“(Council) would like to clarify that while the LMC is a council facility, the sheep in question were in the care of their owner.”

Mr Swan said the investigation was still in its preliminary stages, but he commended council and LMC management for their co-operation.

“In this region people knew there were severe heat warnings in place and in those situations they should have taken extra precautions to improve shelter and water for animals,” he said.

“There is a requirement under law for people charged with the care of livestock, poultry or companion animals to protect them from extreme heat or cold.”

Know more? Email stephen.mudd@fairfaxmedia.com.au