Dog dies after being shut in car

RSPCA officers could not save the dog (Poster: RSPCA)

Police and the RSPCA are warning dog owners not to leave their pets in hot cars after an animal died in a garden centre car park.

The Newfoundland dog was one of two locked in a car at Blooms Garden Centre in Wroughton, Wiltshire, on Wednesday - the hottest day of the year.

The animals were left in the boot of the Hyundai for four hours, and rapidly became dehydrated in 34C temperatures.

One died and the other was left seriously ill, but is now recovering.

RSPCA Inspector Steph Daly said: "This is a grim reminder of what can happen if animals are left in such circumstances.

"The temperature can rise very quickly within a vehicle and although many believe that leaving windows open and providing the animal with water will ensure that they remain hydrated, this is not the case.

"Animals should not be left in a car at all on a warm day."

The dead dog's owners have been interviewed by the RSPCA and the organisation is considering whether to press charges in relation to the case.