Two dogs who were left for over two hours in a car had to be rescued after police were called out to a Cornwall beach.
According to Cornwall Live, worried residents alerted authorities after seeing the two dogs in a carpark by Looe beach.
A local shared photos of the event on social media, saying the dogs hadn't been checked on for at least two hours, even though temperatures in the UK have been higher than usual over recent days.
Kieran Mccrash Mclelland said police were already there when he spotted the two animals in the car - he believed they had managed to smash a window to get the dogs out of the dangerously hot vehicle.
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His photo was shared on social media where people voiced their anger at the helpless pups being left in perilous conditions.
The RSPCA warn: "Never leave your dog alone in a car on a warm day. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, dial 999.
"Many people still believe that it's OK to leave a dog in a car on a warm day if the windows are left open or they're parked in the shade, but the truth is, it's still a very dangerous situation for the dog.
"A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn't feel that warm. When it's 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour."
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The RSPCA has offered advice on what you should do if you see a dog in a hot car.
If you think that the animal is showing any signs of heatstroke, then you should call 999 immediately. Things to look out for include heavy panting, drooling excessively, whether the dog looks drowsy, lethargic or uncoordinated, and if it has collapsed or is vomiting.
If it looks like the dog is in a bad way, and the police are too far away or can't attend then many people would want to smash the glass and break into the car to free the dog.
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If that is what you decide to do, the RSPCA warns: "Please be aware that without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage and, potentially, you may need to defend your actions in court."
If you intend to do so, the RSPCA says to make sure you tell the police what you're doing and why. They also advise you should take photos and videos of the dog, as well as noting the details of any witnesses.
The organisation adds: "The law states that you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (section 5(2)(a) Criminal Damage Act 1971)."
Featured Image Credit: PA