Vet warns dog owners about heatwave and hot cars

Dog owners in Kent and Sussex are being warned not to leave their pets in hot cars

Dog owners on the South coast are being warned not to leave their dogs alone in cars as the region continues to experience a spell of hot weather.

Dogs Trust Canterbury and Shoreham say that temperatures in Kent and Sussex rising as high as 28°C (82°F) this week could lead to dogs suffering from heatstroke, which can be fatal, if left in hot cars.

A spokesperson for the charity said that, even when taking measures including opening windows, it "simply isn't safe" for dogs to be left in cars.

Charlie Dobson, senior vet for the Dogs Trust, urged pet owners to walk dogs during cooler times of the day and to ensure they have shade and water.

He added: "After so many weeks of grey skies, it's lovely to finally enjoy some summer sunshine. But while the warm weather may lift our spirits, it can pose serious health risks to our dogs."

Dogs Trust said that leaving dogs in hot cars, even for a few minutes, can be fatal if they were to suffer extreme heatstroke.

Flat-faced breeds such as English bulldogs, pugs and French bulldogs, as well as older or overweight dogs, are also more at risk of heatstroke.

Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs can include heavy panting, appearing lethargic, vomiting or collapsing.

Temperatures on the South coast are expected to continue to rise this week, peaking towards Saturday and Sunday, while some areas of the UK could hit the early thirties later in the month.