The RSPCA noted a spike in the number of calls made to its emergency hotline to report dogs left in hot cars during the Easter bank holiday weekend.
Earlier this week, the Met Officereported that 22 April had been the hottest Easter Monday on record for all four nations in the UK, with temperatures reaching 25C in some regions.
Meanwhile, Saturday was the hottest day of the year, with the temperature reaching 25.5C in Gosport, Hampshire.
While scores of British revellers were basking in the sunshine, many animals were struggling in the warm weather conditions.
Over the weekend, the RSPCA received 166 emergency calls concerning animals that were suffering in the heat, the majority of which were reporting dogs that had been left in cars.
In comparison, the animal charity received seven calls to its hotline during the same time period last year.
A spokesperson for the RSPCA explains that despite the charity's annual Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign, which highlights the risk of leaving an animal alone in a vehicle, every year the organisation receives "thousands of calls from concerned members of the public who have seen dogs left in these potentially lethal situations".
Caroline Allen, chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA, urges members of the public to consider the wellbeing of their pets while enjoying the warmer weather conditions.
"We were all thrilled to see such beautiful weather over the bank holiday weekend but rising temperatures and strong sunshine can make it extremely uncomfortable – and potentially dangerous – for our pets," Allen states.
The RSPCA spokesperson adds that while those who have spotted animals left in hot cars may decide to take action by calling the charity's helpline, contacting the police on 999 would actually be a better course of action.
"Police officers have the power to enter a vehicle to rescue a dog in need and are also likely to be able to attend much more quickly than the RSPCA, which has limited resources," they explain.
Allen advises pet owners to ensure their animals have plenty of fresh drinking water and access to shade during the hot weather.
"If you have a dog, walk them early in the morning or late at night when it's cooler and avoid taking them out for long days out in the sun as they can easily overheat.," she adds.
"If you're concerned that your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, speak to your vet as soon as possible."
For more information on what to do if you spot a dog in a hot car, click here.
