dogs in cars

RSPCA experiment shows just how deadly hot cars can be - in just 10 minutes

Tuesday (19 July) was the hottest day of the year so far.

As the RSPCA ramped up its Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign, Essex inspector Marie Hammerton decided to run a little experiment in her van.

“I sat in my van with all the windows open, parked in the shade,” she said. “After 10 minutes, this is the temperature - 38.5C (pictured left).

“I was literally dripping in sweat.

RSPCA inspectors have urged owners not to leave their pets in hot cars and share harrowing stories of dogs dying.

The RSPCA is issuing a fresh appeal to pet owners not to leave their dogs in cars or caravans as temperatures are set to soar to 31C this week.

The animal welfare charity had more than 100 calls over the weekend from members of the public concerned about dogs in hot environments - including cars, caravans, conservatories and sheds - as temperatures climbed.

With temperatures set to soar to 20C this week, the RSPCA is issuing advice to pet owners to ensure their animals are comfortable and happy in the heat.

The Met Office has predicted highs of 20C on Saturday and Sunday, prompting the RSPCA to remind pet owners to consider their animals over the summer weather.

Just as cold, wintry weather can pose a risk to animals, hot temperatures in the summer months can also be hazardous to our furry friends.

Dog owners have been urged to keep their pets cool this weekend to avoid the heartbreak of losing a much-loved companion.

With weather forecasts predicting that temperatures could hit highs of 20c over the next few days, the RSPCA has issued its regular appeal to owners to keep their dogs safe in the sun.

RSPCA chief vet James Yeates said: “A hot car can be a death trap for dogs, it is as simple as that. Leaving your dog in a car, even on an average warm, even cloudy day, can put your pet at huge risk of suffering and even death.