WILTSHIRE Police are warning dog owners about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars after several incidents in the county.

Since the beginning of the month, the police have received numerous calls from members of the public worried about the welfare of dogs left in vehicles.

In one incident, a dog left for several hours in a vehicle parked near Trowbridge railway station was removed because RSPCA inspectors feared for its health.

The RSPCA is taking action against the owner.

Other incidents have been recorded in Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett and Melksham.

Wiltshire Police dog handler Neil Sampson said: “Leaving a dog in a car on a hot day is irresponsible and dangerous.

“We have seen temperatures in excess of 30C outside but this can increase significantly inside a locked car.

“Dogs pant to keep cool but struggle to do this in stuffy cars where there is little or no air flow. Even leaving a window open does not allow sufficient air in to help the dog regulate its breathing.

“Under the Animal Welfare Act dog owners have a legal duty of care to their pets and face prosecution if they put animals’ health at risk.

“During the recent hot weather it is even more important that dogs are not left in cars.

“We will work in partnership with the RSPCA to bring those responsible for cruelty to animals to justice.”

The RSPCA has a number of tips for animal owners during hot weather, including:

Your dog should always be able to move into a cooler, ventilated environment if they feel hot;  Never leave your dog alone in a car. If you want to take your dog on a car journey, make sure the destination is dog-friendly.; If you have to leave your dog outside, provide a cool, shady spot where they can escape from the sun at any time; Ensure your dog always has a supply of drinking water, in a weighted bowl that can’t be knocked over.

Carry water with you on hot days and give your dog frequent small amounts.; Never leave your dog in a glass conservatory or a caravan. Even if it is cloudy when you leave, the sun may come out later in the day and make it unbearably hot; Groom your dog regularly to get rid of excess hair. Give long-coated breeds a haircut at the start of the summer, and later in the season, if necessary.

Dogs need exercise – even when it is hot. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening. Never allow your dog to exercise excessively in hot weather; Dogs can get sunburned too – particularly those with light-coloured noses or light-coloured fur on their ears.

Ask your vet for advice on pet-safe sunscreen.

Anyone wishing to report an offence against animals should call Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.