A CREDITON PCSO has warned people not to leave dogs locked in cars this summer.

Police Community Support Officer Lisa McMillan said police have been responding to more and more calls from members of the public concerned about canines in hot vehicles.

“If you see a dog in distress in a car, try to find the owner,” she advised.

“If you can't and the dog is suffering from heatstroke, call 999. Signs of heatstroke include panting heavily, drooling excessively, lethargy, drowsy, un-coordinated, collapsed or vomiting.

“Please do not force entry into the vehicle in the first instance.

“If the police don't have time to get there, then you have to decide if you should take action.

“Make sure you tell the police what you intend to do and why.

“Where possible, take photos or videos of the dog, as well as names and numbers of any other witnesses.

“Don't force entry, unless you are certain that you have the legal grounds to do so and are prepared to defend your actions in court, should any legal action be taken against you.”

The RSPCA has said that a car can “become as hot as an oven” even when the weather does not feel that warm.

“Many people think it's ok to leave their dog in the car if they're parked in the shade or the windows are open,” a spokesperson said.

“When it's 22 degrees Celsius outside, the car could reach an unbearable 47 degrees within an hour.

“It's very dangerous and will cause your dog suffering and harm.”

The charity also advises leaving dogs at home on hot days.

“As long as they have managed to have a dawn or late evening walk and you're not leaving them for longer than four hours they should be happy either napping or with some things to do.”