The UK is in the midst of a heatwave and temperatures are creeping into the mid-30s, so why are people still leaving dogs in hot cars?

It doesn't take a genius to know not to leave a pet in a boiling hot car, but it does take an idiot to think they know better than to listen to this.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Lisa Hens said: “We had hoped that the message was finally getting through but, sadly, it seems that this may not be the case.

"The temperature inside a car can soar to 47C (117F) within minutes, even when the outside temperature is just 22C (72F) and this can be fatal for a dog."

If you wouldn't leave a baby in 47C of heat then why would you leave your beloved pet?

Opening a window or leaving you car in the shade does not help the situation and you may come back to a smashed window or a dead pet.

But what can you legally do if you see a dog locked in a boiling hot car?

A dog that is in danger will show signs such as panting heavily, drooling excessively, being lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and vomiting.

The RSPCA advises people to call 999, warning that if you smash the glass of a car to get a hot dog out it could be classed as criminal damage.

But there may be a way around this - make sure you tell the police of your intentions and take photos or footage of the dog as well as names and numbers of witnesses.

The law states you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances.

Here is what the RSPCA says for once you have got the dog out of the car:

If the dog isn't displaying symptoms of heatstroke

Establish how long the dog has been in the car. A ‘pay and display’ ticket could help.

Make a note of the car’s registration. If the owner returns, but you still feel the situation was dangerous for the dog, you may still report the incident to the police.

If you’re at a shop, venue or event ask the staff to make an announcement to alert the owner of the situation.

If possible, get someone to stay with the dog to monitor its condition. If it begins to display signs of distress or heatstroke, be prepared to dial 999.

You can also call the 24-hour cruelty line for advice on 0300 1234 999. However, if the dog's in danger, dialling 999 should always be the first step.