Dog experts have warned owners to pay extra attention to their pets this Easter weekend.
That warning comes as temperatures are expected to soar to 22C over the bank holiday.
Esme Wheeler, dog welfare expert for the RSPCA, said: “It’s great that we can expect some warm weather for the long Easter weekend.
“And no doubt many people will be heading off in the car for a break, days out, or long walks in the sunshine.
“However, even mildly warm weather can pose serious risks for our pets, so it’s really important we do everything we can to keep them comfortable and safe.
Dog owners are being told to pay extra attention to their pets this weekend
Brian Lawless
Temperatures are expected to reach 22C this weekend
Ben Birchall
"The message is simple: never leave a dog in a hot car.
"Not long is too long, and if you see a dog in a hot car, call 999 immediately.”
Ms Wheeler added: "Despite our very clear message each year, some people still continue to leave their dogs in hot cars thinking there is no risk.
"Many more take their dogs out for walks in hot temperatures when pavements are red hot.
"It’s so important to remember not to leave any animal in any vehicle or caravan, or in a conservatory or outbuilding, where temperatures can quickly rise.
"That's the case even when it doesn’t feel that warm outside.
“Many people still believe that it's ok to leave a dog in a car on a warm day if the windows are left open or they're parked in the shade, but the truth is, it’s still a very dangerous situation for the dog.”
According to the the RSPCA, warning signs of heatstrokes in dogs include heavy panting, excessive drooling.
Other symptoms include the dog looking lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated as well as collapsing or vomiting
