'Our cars are like ovens' - MP makes plea to keep pets safe in warm weather
With warm weather forecast across Lancashire this weekend, dog owners are being urged not to leave pets alone in cars, as new figures show a sharp rise in heatstroke cases linked to vehicles.
Even on a mild or pleasant day, temperatures inside a parked car can climb dangerously high within minutes - putting dogs at serious risk of heatstroke, organ failure and even death.
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MP for Blackpool North and Fleetwood, Lorraine Beavers, said: “While the weather is beautiful this weekend, please look out for your dogs and don't leave them alone in cars during warm weather.
“It might feel like we've heard this all before but the proportion of dogs with heatstroke caused by being in a vehicle nearly doubled between 2016 and 2023 and over 500 dogs died, or were rescued from, heat-related situations in 2025.
“Our cars are like ovens, even with the windows open or in the shade, the temperature can rise to deadly temperatures fast.
“So please, leave your pets at home while it's warm or save that trip to the shop for when you don't have the dog with you If you want more information on avoiding heatstroke in dogs, or how to rescue an animal in a car, please visit RSPCA (England & Wales)Statistics on heatstroke taken from Royal Veterinary College and PETA.”
Animal welfare organisations are once again reminding owners to think carefully before taking dogs on journeys during warm weather, warning that leaving pets in cars, even with windows open or parked in the shade, can quickly become fatal.
Experts say many incidents happen because owners underestimate how quickly conditions inside a vehicle can change.
Owners are being encouraged to leave pets safely at home during hot spells or plan trips for cooler parts of the day. Simple errands, such as popping to the shops, can prove deadly if a dog is left waiting in a parked vehicle.
The RSPCA has also issued advice on how to spot signs of heatstroke in dogs and what members of the public should do if they see an animal in distress inside a car.