RSPCA WA is urging people to consider the comfort and safety of their pets as temperatures ramp up across the state.

The organisation is reminding dog owners the temperature in a parked car can quickly climb to double the outside temperature and kill a dog in just six minutes.

Even when the temperature outside is a mild 22C, the temperature inside a parked car can rise to over 47C. Dogs in these conditions can suffer an agonising death.

RSPCA WA inspector manager Kylie Green said there were 236 reports of dogs left in cars from November to April.

“I’m concerned with this week’s temperatures we’ll see a jump in numbers again and dogs will suffer, perhaps even die,” she said.

“Our message is simple – if you love your dog, leave them at home. A quick visit to the shops could cost your dog their life. Don’t put your best friend’s life at risk.”

Similarly, warmer weather brings reports of people walking their dogs in the heat of the day, risking burned paw and respiratory distress.

“Protect your hound and check the ground before a walk. Check the surface temperature by placing your palm down on the ground. If you can’t comfortably hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s sensitive paws and may cause injury.

“In hot weather, walk your dogs in the cool of the early morning, or wait until the evening.”

If you’re at a shopping centre, ask the centre management to page the owner of the vehicle.

If you see a dog in a hot car identify signs of heatstroke, note down the vehicle’s registration number and location and report it immediately to the RSPCA Cruelty Hotline on 1300 278 358 (1300 CRUELTY) or call WA Police on 131 444.