Fiona Pereira, campaign manager, Animal Aid, writes:

With the arrival of warmer weather, we should be ­reminded that animals can suffer and die.

Dogs die in hot cars even if the sun is not shining and should not be left in them even for short periods.

Other animals suffer, too. Rabbits must not be left in the glaring sun or inside a sweltering garage or shed. They need a cool, shady place where air ­circulates and where they are able to move freely. A hot rabbit can be kept cool by applying cold water gently to its ears.

Smaller animals, such as hamsters, rats and gerbils, can be kept cool by opening windows and closing curtains, using a fan, albeit not directly at them, and by ensuring a good supply of fresh water.