THE RSPCA is urging Halton animal lovers to keep their pets safe in the heat after a spate of horrifying calls.

The animal charity has received almost 400 calls in the past week about animals being left trapped in soaring temperatures.

A rabbit was left outside without shade or water, a parot was trapped in a hot car, a cage of hamsters were seen in pet shop window in direct sunlight and a horse was left tethered in 82 degrees unable to move.

RSPCA pet welfare expert Dr Jane Tyson said: “Hot weather can cause problems for animals.

“Every summer we urge people to take extra precautions during the heat but sadly our inspectors on the ground are still being faced with distressing situations that could be avoided.

“We hope the message is starting to get through to peple that hot cars can be death traps for dogs. It really is important to remember that other animals may be suffering too.”

For more tips on how to keep animals safe from the heat visit rspca.org.uk.