Call 999 if you see a dog left in a car during heatwave in Milton Keynes, say police

And they are urging anyone who sees a dog shut in a car during the current heatwave to call 999.

A police spokesman said: "Remember, never leave your dog in a car unattended, even for five minutes whilst you pop into the shop. Dogs die in hot cars. We will not think twice about smashing your car windows. We will not think twice about prosecuting you for abuse. If you see a dog left in a car on a hot day, call 999 immediately."

The RSPCA has also put out a warning urging people to take action if they spot a dog suffering in a car.

A spokesman said: "Many people still believe that it's okay 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."

The RSPCA is also advising anyone who sees a dog shut in a car to establish the animal's health and condition.

The spokesman said: "If they're displaying any signs of heatstroke dial 999 immediately. If the situation becomes critical for the dog and the police are too far away or unable to attend, many people's instinct will be to break into the car to free the dog

"If you decide to do this, 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.

"Make sure you tell the police what you intend to do and why. Take pictures or videos of the dog and the names and numbers of witnesses to the incident. 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)."

Dogs suffering from heatstroke need urgent treatment to have their body temperature lowered gradually.

The RSPCA advises people to move the dog to a shaded or cool area and immediately douse him or her with water. To avoid shock, the water should be cool but not cold.

If possible, you should use wet towels or place him/her in the breeze of a fan.

You should allow the dog to drink small amounts of water and continue to douse with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle - but never so much that the dog begins to shiver.

Once the dog is cool, take him/her to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency, say the RSPCA.