The SPCA is appealing to dog owners to think twice before leaving their dogs in vehicles this summer.

SPCA inspectors received several calls from concerned members of the public after spotting dogs locked in cars during spring.

Dogs being left inside hot cars is one of the biggest preventable welfare issues in summer, and SPCA inspector Ben Lakomy says it's disappointing the message still isn't getting.

'It is an offence under the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018, to leave a dog in a hot vehicle if they are showing signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, drooling or hyperventilation, and trying to seek shade,” says Ben.

'When it's 21 degrees Celsius outside, temperatures in a car parked in the shade with the windows down can exceed 31 degrees Celsius in less than 10 minutes. In 30 minutes, it goes up to 40 degrees Celsius. On a hot day, the temperature inside the vehicle can exceed 50 degrees Celsius.”

Pet owners, whose dogs are found in this state, can be issued with a $300 infringement notice.

'SPCA inspectors across the country have noticed a number of people in emergency housing where dogs are residing long term in vehicles, and we know this will become an issue going into summer.

'We've managed to mitigate welfare concerns and educate dog owners during winter months, but it is very concerning coming into warmer weather.”

From January 2021 to October 2022, SPCA received 889 welfare complaints relating to dogs being left unattended inside hot cars.

SPCA CEO Gabby Clezy also encouraged dog owners to think again before leaving their dog in the car on hot days.

'A lot of people leave their dog in the car thinking they're only going to be a few minutes, but it's important to always expect the unexpected.

'You might find that you get to the store and the queue is longer than usual, or you bump into someone you know and start chatting, all while your dog is waiting in the car.

'If you're planning on going out for a short time, leave your dog at home, or in the care of a friend, family member or neighbour. We know dogs are such important companions, but it's important to put their welfare first.”

Gabby encourages those concerned about dogs left in cars showing signs of distress, to contact SPCA.