Pet owners are being warned to be vigilant about the care of their animals during the current heatwave.

Nigel Gibbens, the Government’s chief veterinary officer, has advised owners not to leave pets in any car, van or lorry.

Owners should also be careful about leaving animals in a caravan, conservatory, kennel and should ensure they are not accidentally locked in a garden shed or greenhouse.

Pets should also be given free access to water and owners are advised to walk their dogs in cool periods of the day.

Mark Johnston, spokesman for the British Small Animals Veterinary Association, said high temperatures were particularly dangerous for older dogs who are less able to control their body temperature. This affects large breeds of dogs over six years old and small breeds over eight years old.

Mr Johnston said: “Owners should also take notice if a dog is excessively panting or has had a bad collapse. If a dog has breathing problems, owners should consult a vet.

“But if you need to cool down a dog the best thing is to spray them with water or put them near a fan. There is no need to keep animals indoors and they can still exercise. But if anyone is going for a long walk I suggest they take a bottle of water and small bowl with them.”

He said that cats were less of a problem in the heat but they too should not be left in a car or anywhere enclosed with open sunlight like a conservatory. Older cats aged over nine were prone to over-heating.

He also suggested that there were were often problems with rabbits left in a hutch in the middle of the garden. He said they needed shade and ventilation.

He said all pets should have free access to water at all times and owners should also keep a check on them for sores which attract blowflies that can leave animals riddled with maggots.

Pets also tend to have smaller appetites in hot weather so owners should not be concerned if their animals are eating less food.

The RSPCA has also issued a warning that hot cars can be death traps for dogs.

Mark Evans, the charity’s chief veterinary adviser, said:

“Many owners believe that leaving a car window open or a bowl of water nearby is enough, but in reality this will make virtually no difference and the dog is still in serious danger of literally being cooked alive.”

He added: “Leaving your dog in a car, even on an average warm, cloudy summer day, can put your pet at huge suffering and even death.

“This is not a new warning, but sadly to many people still don’t appreciate how dangerous it can be to leave a dog in a hot car, conservatory or caravan.”

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