Notts Police warn dog owners of hot cars in the heatwave
Nottinghamshire Police has warned dog owners not to leave their animals in hot cars during the heatwave.
Police are reminding dog owners of the dangers as the UK prepares for its hottest day ever recorded tomorrow (July 25).
It comes after the force received several reports of concern for dogs trapped in cars during the heatwave last month.
In some instances officers have had to force open car windows to rescue overheated dogs across the country.
Sergeant Gavin Berry, of Nottinghamshire Police, said it can take less than ten minutes for the temperature inside a car to more than double, which could prove fatal to the dog – even if a window is slightly open.
"With another hot day forecast on Thursday, as people continue to enjoy the summer holidays, we just want to remind dog owners of the dangers of leaving their animals inside hot cars – even for a few minutes," he said.
"Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, which can make dogs very distressed. Avoid walking your dog on hot pavements, as their paw pads can easily burn, and you should keep your dog out of direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time."
The RSPCA recommends calling 999 if a dog is showing signs of heatstroke and is trapped in a car as only police have the power to force entry.
The Animal Welfare Act of 2006 states only a local authority inspector or PC has the authority to assist an animal likely to be suffering. A member of the public who breaks into someone's car is not protected under the law and may be subject to a criminal damage investigation.
More advice on keeping your dog safe in hot weather can be found on the accompanying police poster.
For more advice, including what you should do if you see a dog showing signs of distress in a hot car, visit www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/advice/dogsinhotcars
Or for more information on what to do and helping animals that are suffering heatstroke, please visit the RSPCA website www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/dogsinhotcars
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