Drivers issued urgent warning with 'important' messages displayed alongside key roads

Campaigners have supported new road changes to introduce signage across Wales to remind drivers of the dangers of leaving their vehicles in their cars during warmer spells of weather.

Drivers across Wales will continue to see roadside signs displaying warnings about leaving pets in vehicles during the current heatwave.

Temperatures across the UK soared to their highest ever levels in May, with Kew Gardens seeing mercury rising to a staggering 35.8 degrees Celsius.

With the Met Office urging motorists to remain safe during the high temperatures, the Welsh Government is also reminding drivers of their responsibilities.

Wales became the first and only country in the UK to display messages about not leaving dogs in vehicles in 2019 after a request from the RSPCA.

The variable messaging signs state "Ceir poeth yn lladd cwn", or "Dogs die in hot cars", and are displayed during times of hot temperatures.

Mark Hooper MS, Deputy Minister for Transport, confirmed that the Welsh Government would display the signs on the nation's trunk road network.

He said: "Wales was the first country in the UK to use signage in this way, and I'm proud that we continue to lead the way in helping to protect animals' lives.

"I urge all dog owners to never leave their pet in a vehicle during warm weather - even for a short time - as the consequences can be fatal."

When people are dealing with temperatures of 22 degrees Celsius outside, this can soar to a staggering 47 degrees within an hour inside a car.

The RSPCA highlighted how dogs left alone in cars on hot days can quickly become dehydrated, develop heatstroke or even die.

It noted that the charity and police forces across the country continue to receive reports of dogs being left in cars.

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The RSPCA has urged members of the public to call 999 if they see a dog in distress in a hot car, especially with the soaring temperatures currently being seen.

Billie-Jade Thomas, senior public affairs manager for RSPCA Cymru, echoed these calls, describing the road signage as providing an "important message".

She continued, saying: "Temperatures are continuing to soar this week and we all want everyone's pets to be as safe and comfortable as possible.

"We're encouraging owners to do some 'pet homework' in this current heat and ahead of the summer and do as much as they can in the heat to keep their animals safe - which is also all part of the Summer of Kindness - aiming to create a kinder summer for every animal."

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 states that it is illegal for people to mistreat or neglect animals, which could include leaving a dog in dangerous conditions inside a vehicle.

Ms Thomas said people around the UK should get into the habit of checking weather forecasts every day to ensure they can cool their dogs down after a walk.

Similarly, they can also change their daily routines during hot spells and watch for the telltale signs of heatstroke.