RECKLESS dog owners in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are leaving more pets in hot cars than anywhere outside London, new figures reveal.

Hundreds of animals are suffering and even dying from heat exposure in car parks and driveways.

In 2015 the RSPCA was called to 433 reports of struggling dogs in Hampshire, the third highest of any county.

Combined with the Isle of Wight total of 45, it puts the region ahead of Kent and second only to Greater London, on 645.

Animal welfare chiefs have told the public to dial 999 if they see a dog in a hot car and issued instructions for anyone planning a rescue themselves.

The number of reports in Hampshire has nearly doubled since 2013 and last year's tally even eclipses 2014, when there was a major heatwave.

Most animals represented in the figures were in hot cars, the RSPCA says, but some may have been in caravans or conservatories.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "It’s important to remember not to leave any animal in a car or caravan, or in a conservatory or outbuilding, where temperatures can quickly rise, even when it doesn’t feel that warm outside.

"For example, when it’s 22C outside, within an hour the temperature can reach 47C inside a vehicle, which can result in death.

"If the animal is displaying any sign of heatstroke - such as panting heavily, drooling excessively, is lethargic or uncoordinated, or collapsed and vomiting - call 999 immediately."

Anyone worried about a dog's health is urged to call the police as they typically respond quicker than the RSPCA and have powers to break into vehicles.

If police can't attend callers are warned that breaking in yourself could be classed as criminal damage and should only be done if the police are aware of your intentions and you believe the vehicle owner would consent.

Once removed dogs should be taken to a shaded area and doused with cool water. Pets should drink small amounts of cool water.

If the dog isn’t displaying signs of heatstroke, establish how long it has been in the car and make a note of the registration. If a tannoy is available nearby as a member of staff to make an announcement.

The Dog’s Trust, The Kennel Club and TeamOtisUK are the latest groups to join this year's Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign. Other bodies to sign up include the Blue Cross, British Veterinary Association, The Mayhew Animal Home, National Animal Welfare Trust, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, the National Police Chiefs Council, PDSA and Wood Green The Animals Charity.

Advice is available from the RSPCA’s 24-hour emergency cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.