An animal welfare charity has warned dog owners are putting their pets at risk of heat exposure during the hot weather.

The RSPCA received seven calls from people in Kent worried about overheating dogs during the bank holiday weekend.

The charity says despite regular campaigns about the dangers, some owners continue to put their pets at risk of death.

RSPCA campaign manager, Holly Barber, said: “Many people think it will be fine just to leave their pets for a minute or two but we know that this is all it takes for temperatures inside a car to soar to dangerous levels.

“Dogs die in hot cars. Don’t let your pet be one of the number.

“We have been doing a lot of campaigning lately about the dangers of leaving your dog in a hot car, and it’s really worrying that despite this, some people are still putting their pets in dangerous situations.

“Our main advice to owners is not to leave dogs in cars and our main advice to passers-by is to call 999 if they’re concerned about an animal in a hot environment.”

People are advised to call the police if they notice a dog overheating in a car.

The RSPCA recommends not to instantly break a car window.

"Dogs die in hot cars... don't let your pet be one of the number" - Holly Barber

Instead, they say if the situation appears critical, tell the police of your intentions to smash the window and take photos or footage of the dog as well as names and numbers of witnesses.

Once removed from the car, move the dog to a shaded area and pour small amounts of cool water over their body.

A RSPCA spokesman added: “Once the dog is removed from the car, move the dog to a shaded area and pour small amounts of cool water over their body.

“Don’t use cold water as this could put the dog into shock. Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.

“Once the dog is cool take him to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency.

“If the dog isn’t displaying signs of heatstroke, establish how long they have been in the car and make a note of the registration.

“If they are parked outside a business, ask a member of staff to make an announcement of the situation over the tannoy, if possible, and get someone to stay with the dog to monitor its condition.”

• The RSPCA’s 24-hour emergency cruelty line is available on 0300 1234 999 for advice.