Pet owners are being warned to look after their animals in the heatwave.

The RSPCA says while humans soak up the sun, dogs and other animals are suffering from a range of complaints.

With temperatures set to stay high for the next few days, the charity is urging people to put the welfare of their pet first.

Alan Goddard, RSPCA superintendent, said: "A spell of warm weather always triggers calls from the public who are worried about dogs left in cars.

"Garden centres, supermarket car parks and pubs are some of the most common locations. People will also go to fetes and leave their pet in the car, rather than leave it at home.

"These incidents could be easily prevented if owners followed the simple rule that there is no safe way to leave an animal in a vehicle on a warm day."

The temperature inside a car can soar to more than 49 C (120F).

Last year the RSPCA secured five convictions for cases involving dogs in hot cars, nine in 2002 and 15 in 2000.

Other advice involves keeping caged animals and fish tanks out of direct sunlight. Fresh water and water in birdbaths should be topped up regularly.

Spraying a hose over a pond helps replace oxygen.