ONE dog has died and another is recovering after being found unconscious in a hot car at Halton Hospital in Runcorn.

The police were alerted after a passer by noticed two boxer dogs struggling to breathe in a vehicle.

A Cheshire police spokesman said: “Police received a call from a member of the public reporting two dogs who appeared to be suffering the effects of heat in a car parked on the car park of Halton Hospital.

“Officers attended and the dogs, a male and female, were released from the unlocked vehicle.

“Members of the public assisted in attempting to rehydrate and cool down the dogs with water, however the male dog appeared unconscious and unresponsive. “ Both dogs were seized by police, shortly after 2pm on Tuesday, September 9.

An RSPCA officer took the male dog to a vet for treatment but the charity has confirmed that it had to be put to sleep.

A man and woman, believed to own the dogs, were found after the hospital made a tannoy announcement.

An RSPCA spokesman said: “Sadly one of the dogs did have to be put to sleep - the other is recovering. As this is an ongoing investigation it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.

"However, we would like to remind people that a tragic incident like this is sadly not uncommon. A hot car can be a death trap for dogs, it is as simple as that.

“ Leaving your dog in a car, even on an average warm, even cloudy day, can put your pet at huge risk of suffering and even death.

“Sadly too many people still don’t appreciate how dangerous it can be to leave a dog in a hot car, conservatory or caravan. Don’t let your dog be the one to find out the hard way."