Police are investigating a report that a woman was assaulted after freeing two dogs shut in a car at a Canterbury supermarket.

Zoe Tyzack came across the animals at Aldi in St Andrew's Close at just after 5.30pm yesterday and became concerned for their welfare as temperatures hit the high 20s.

She posted two pictures of the dogs, which appeared to be Labradors, on the Canterbury Residents Group page on Facebook.

Group members urged her to smash the red Vauxhall Corsa's windows.

Ms Tyzack released the dogs by opening the car's door.

It was then that she reported that a woman emerged from the supermarket and was abusive to her before throwing water over her.

Ms Tyzack wrote on Facebook: "I don't aim to be a hero of any sort. I own my own dogs, severe weather warning is in place and my car is still showing 30 degrees.

"The car was under a tree with windows open approx 3-4 inches in the back. This does not help dogs in this stifling heat which the woman claims was quite suitable."

Police spokesman Steve Knight said: "The victim reported that she was approached by a woman who was verbally abusive, threw water at her and made her fear for her safety.

"Inquiries into the incident are ongoing."

On Tuesday a dog owner was arrested and his pet seized after the animal was left in a van for more than four hours in sweltering heat.