A DOG welfare charity has advised owners to not leave pets alone in a hot car seat even for a few minutes as it can prove fatal.

The advice comes after predictions that temperatures will soar in the coming days reaching 31 degrees later this week.

Dogs Trust says on a 22C (71.6F) day, the temperature inside a car could rise by 11C in just 10 minutes and because dogs cannot cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.

Earlier this week an American Bulldog Finlay was left fighting for his life after his body temperature soared to a life-threatening 42.2C (108F) during recent hot weather.

The one-year-old - who was born with three legs - became overheated when his owner took him to a park in Glasgow.

Warrington Guardian: Finlay’s body temperature soared to a life-threatening temperature (PDSA)Finlay’s body temperature soared to a life-threatening temperature (PDSA)

Don't walk your dog in the heat

The charity has also advised pet owners to not walk their dogs at the hottest times of the day.

Instead early morning or later in the evening walks are best accompanied with water.

Dog lovers have also been warned tarmac can get 'very hot in the sun' and advises owners 'to check it with their hand before letting dogs walk on it so they don't burn their paws'.

Other tips that have been given are avoiding long car journeys, using a sun blind for shade, avoiding congested roads as much as possible and taking regular breaks and having plenty of water on board.

Paula Boyden, Dogs Trust veterinary director, said: "There are so many things we can do to make sure our dogs stay happy and healthy in hot weather, but it is crucial we keep a close eye on them, even if we are playing indoors.

"If we all do this, then hopefully we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer."