It should be obvious to all responsible owners that dogs should never be put in danger through being left unattended in vehicles during hot weather.

But some people still do it, leaving their supposedly beloved pets at risk of slow, agonising deaths in the heat.

So what should you do if you see a dog in distress and there is no sign of the owner?

The RSPCA advises calling 999 as it might not be able to attend quickly enough and would need police assistance anyway.

A dog is in danger if it displays signs of heat stroke, which are panting heavily, drooling excessively, being lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and vomiting.

Use caution if you consider breaking into the car to free the dog - without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage.

Echo: Can you legally smash a car window to save a distressed dog?

Before you do so make sure you tell the police of your intentions and take photos or videos of the dog, and names and numbers of any witnesses.

You have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe the owner would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances.

Once you have rescued the dog from the car you should move it to a shaded or cool area and douse it with cool water.

You should also allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.

If the dog is not showing signs of heatstroke establish how long the dog has been in the car and make a note of the registration.

If you are in a shopping car park ask a member of staff to make an announcement over the PA system.

Someone should stay with the dog to monitor its condition.

For more information on what to do if you see a dog in a hot car, visit the RSPCA’s website.