Increase in police call outs to dogs left in hot cars

Most of the calls have been related to incidents in Battle, including the Market Square car park.

But reports have also been received of dogs being left in cars in local beauty spots.

Despite the volume of calls received, none of the dogs had been left for long and all were found not to be in distress.

Sergeant Paul Masterson, of the Battle Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I’d like to remind owners that if you are going to leave your dog in your car to ensure it has enough air by leaving a window part open, is parked in shade and has water.

“Perhaps also write a note to put in your windscreen stating that the animal does have enough water etc.”

Sgt Masterson added: “However, I would also like to remind owners that if one of our officers believes the animal is in distress and have exhausted lines of enquiry to find the owner they can and will break into the vehicle to save the dog’s life.”