As we bask in the sun here in Edinburgh, animal welfare charities are warning motorists to be aware of the dangers of leaving your pet in the car.
The Scottish SPCA alone receive hundreds of calls about dogs being left in cars during the summer months.
While some owners may think it is okay to leave a dog in the car for a length of time, the SPCA have a clear message: "Dogs die in hot cars."
Even if a car is left in the shade, it can become over 20 degrees hotter inside the car in less than an hour.
This is potentially life threatening for dogs who can succumb to heatstroke in just 15 minutes.
The RSPCA warns that while it is not illegal to leave your dog in the car in the UK, if a dog suffers or dies as a result of this then the owner could face criminal charges.
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What to do if you see a dog in a hot car?
If you see a dog alone in a hot car, there are steps you can take to help.
- Try to establish how long the dog has been in the car - check for a pay and display ticket.
- Make a note of the car registration - you can report this to the police even if the owner returns.
- If you are at a shop, venue or event ask the staff to make an announcement.
- Monitor the animal's condition, if it shows signs of distress or heatstroke call the police.
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