A correspondent asked: "Could the RSPCA explain how it is that a traveller is allowed to keep five dogs cooped up in an old bus?" (Letters, February 11).

The writer went on to ask how the owner managed to get the dogs and said, quite rightly, that if anyone wants a dog from the RSPCA they are checked at home to ensure their suitability for dog ownership.

The writer appeared to be under the misapprehension that the owner of these dogs, who was prosecuted by the RSPCA for causing them unnecessary suffering after leaving them in a hot van, got his animals from one of the society's sanctuaries.

That is not the case. The RSPCA would never rehome dogs to someone living in unsuitable accommodation. Unfortunately, there is no law preventing anyone from buying a dog or a number of dogs and keeping them wherever they like.

The final point the writer made was that he or she "supposes the taxpayer had to foot the bill, as usual". No, the RSPCA had to foot the bill for the prosecution, as usual. In fact, the owner - who was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to seven dogs - was not ordered to repay any costs to the RSPCA. He was given a 12-months conditional discharge and told by magistrates to go and "enjoy his life".

Owners must realise there is no safe way to leave a dog in a car in warm weather. Even when the weather is not particularly hot, dogs can suffer from heatstroke because up to 90 per cent of their body is covered with hair. Leaving windows open and a water bowl is not enough.

-Klare Kennett, RSPCA South East regional press officer (call 01622 753172 or 07715 540315)