A surge in temperatures has prompted the RSPCA to issue an urgent warning to pet owners, reminding them that animals should never be left inside parked vehicles and urging members of the public to call 999 if they spot one in distress.
The animal welfare charity said it does not have the legal powers to enter a vehicle to rescue an animal, meaning police should always be contacted immediately if an animal is trapped in a hot car.
Animal welfare expert Lauren Bennett said: “[We do] not have the legal power to enter a vehicle to rescue an animal in distress – only the police have the power to do this.
“So please, if you see a dog or any other animal inside a hot car, call 999 immediately – every second really does count in this situation and it’s vital to get the animal out of that environment and safely cooled down as soon as possible.
“This is not a new warning, but sadly too many people still don’t appreciate how dangerous it can be to leave a dog in a hot car, conservatory or caravan.
“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. We want to see owners understanding the danger of leaving their pet in a hot car, and never taking this risk with their lives.
“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.
“Sadly, too many animals die in hot cars – don’t let your pet be one of the number.”
The warning comes as the charity shares advice for pet owners during the current spell of extreme heat, encouraging them to keep animals cool, comfortable and well hydrated.
Lauren added: “We’re urging pet owners to make this a Summer of Kindness – and focus on keeping their animals cool, comfortable and calm until temperatures start to ease. Fresh water, air flow, shade and mental enrichment can make all the difference during this intense period of extreme heat.
“It’s essential that pet owners familiarise themselves with the signs of heatstroke in their animals, and know how to act if they believe their pet may be suffering.”
The RSPCA says anyone who suspects an animal is suffering from heatstroke should stop all activity, move the animal into a cooler environment and begin cooling them immediately using water that is cooler than their body temperature, alongside air movement where possible.
Owners should then transport the animal to a veterinary practice in a cool, well-ventilated vehicle while continuing the cooling process and calling ahead to alert the practice.
The charity said the “Cool First, Transport Second” approach is now considered best practice because quickly lowering an animal’s temperature can significantly improve its chances of recovery.
New figures released by veterinary group inspiring vet care, which has recently partnered with the RSPCA, show vets dealt with 355 suspected heatstroke cases in pets during 2025. Around two-thirds of those incidents happened during the summer months, representing a 28 per cent increase compared with the previous year.
The RSPCA is also reminding owners that it is not only dogs that are at risk. Rabbits, guinea pigs, cats and other pets all need protection from the sun and high temperatures.
During Rabbit Awareness Week, which runs from Sunday 22 June to Thursday 26 June, the charity is highlighting the importance of providing rabbits with shade, fresh drinking water and the correct diet.
Rebecca Ashman, Head Vet at the RSPCA, said: “Cats and other animals like rabbits can get sunburnt in exactly the same way as humans do, and exposure to the sun causes them all the same risks, like skin cancer – it’s a particular risk for white-furred animals or those with no hair.
“To keep them safe, you can gently apply some pet-safe, waterproof sun cream – at least factor 30 – to the front and back of the tips of your pet’s ears and a bit on the furless part of their nose.
“Your pet might find this feels a bit strange at first, but take it slow and reward them with treats. It’s important to make sure they are protected and this small act will help to keep them healthy – every kind of animal deserves our kindness this summer.
“Signs of skin cancer in pets include redness and soreness, especially on the tips of the ears, or crusting around the ears – so if you notice this, it’s important to take your pet to the vet.”
