In some good news, Tesco has confirmed its staff will patrol their car parks checking for dogs locked in hot vehicles.

Working with the RSPCA, the supermarket giant has started training staff members to protect dogs, recognise the signs of heatstroke, and help animals suffering from it as temperatures continue to soar. First launching in Birmingham, Tesco hopes the initiative will roll out across the UK.

"We're working with the RSPCA and all of our colleagues in store have received training to ensure animal welfare is protected," Tesco said. "Our colleagues regularly patrol our car parks and are given guidance on what to do if they spot a dog unattended in a car."

sad dog left alone in locked carpinterest
Ablozhka //Getty Images

Dog owners should never leave their pups in the car on a hot day — even if it's just for a few minutes. A new warning from the RSPCA says: "A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn't feel that warm. When it's 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour."


More on keeping your dog cool:


Signs of heatstroke in dogs to look out for include heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, and feeling drowsy or lethargic. If you spot a dog stuck in a car on a hot day, the RSPCA is asking people to call 999 immediately.

Let's hope other supermarkets follow suit.

Follow Country Living on Instagram.

13 dog paddling pools to buy now
Headshot of Lisa Joyner
Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.