THE RSPCA are to investigate after a dog was locked in a van for more than four hours on a hot sunny day.
A man was arrested by police after a member of the public noticed a van shaking and a young Alsatian male crossbreed dog in a major state of distress inside.
The 39-year-old man from Littlebourne, near Canterbury, was detained by Sussex Police officers at Chichester Gate on suspicion of animal cruelty at around 1pm on Tuesday.
He was interviewed by officers and released under investigation.
The dog was taken to a local vet for treatment. It is understood the animal will recover.
It was seized from the owner and was taken into care by the RSPCA, while they continue their investigation.
A Sussex Police spokesman said: “This dog is lucky to be alive and it is a sharp reminder to all drivers - do not leave your dog in the car in this heat, even for 20 minutes.”
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