VETERINARY nurses are warning people of the dangers of leaving their dogs in hot cars, even for a short time, after being called out to a report in the village.

Liz Gorman and Faye Douglas of Cheshire Pet Veterinary Practice urgently attended an incident in a car park last week, where two dogs had been left in a car parked in direct sunlight.

Although the windows were partially down, the nurses said the dogs were panting and in danger of heating.

Liz said: “We didn’t hesitate to race to the car park as we know in this situation seconds count.

"A car is just like an oven and even with a window slightly open it can soon become a death trap. Dogs can't cool down like we do as they only sweat in a few places."

Staff conducted an experiment, which saw a thermometer left in the back seat of car - with windows down - shoot up to 35 degrees C within minutes.

If you think your dogs are suffering heat stroke, gradually cool them down with wet towels and ice packs.

For more information or advice, call 01477 544554 or visit cheshirepet.co.uk.