“Just don’t leave them in the car at all, it’s that simple,” Satur Veterinary Clinic’s Andy McClenahan says.

“Even in a very short amount of time, their chances of dying increases dramatically.

“It’s like an oven in there and leaving the window down is just not enough.”

Mr McClenahan recommends keeping pets inside if possible and ensuring they aren’t exposed to hot surfaces.

“If you have an outside dog, make sure there is shade, plenty of fresh water and, ideally, a paddling pool,” he says.

“We don’t advise taking your pet for a walk on hot days like this but, if you are going to, do it early in the morning.

“And, take off any metal or chain collars.”

Some other tips include:

- hosing down concrete or under trees for a cool place to lie;

- extra water bowls;

- freeze ice-cream containers full of water and add a few dog biscuits for a cool, fun treat. For cats, consider ice cubes;

- clip long-haired breeds of cats and dogs;

- know the signs of heat stress and seek veterinary treatment quickly.