DOG-OWNERS are being warned not to leave their pets in the car during hot weather.

Eastbourne Borough Council shared the message that “dogs die in hot cars” on its social media channels.

A spokesman said: “Leaving the windows or doors open or parking in the shade does little to help.

“It doesn’t take long for a car to become as hot as an oven.”

An RSPCA spokesman offered advice to anyone who sees a dog in a car on a hot day.

He said: “Never leave your dog alone in a car on a warm day. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, dial 999.

“A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn’t feel that warm. When it’s 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour.

“In an emergency, we may not be able to attend quickly enough, and with no powers of entry, we’d need police assistance at such an incident. Don’t be afraid to dial 999.”