Pets in danger of being hot under the collar if left in vehicles Dog owners are being warned they could face prosecution if they leave their pets in hot cars this summer. DOG owners are being warned they could face prosecution if they leave their pets in hot cars this summer. With the mercury tipped to soar this week, the RSPCA are warning pet owners to not leave their furry friends behind the wheel. Animals left in cars suffer horrific injuries including extreme stress, organ failure and seizures. RSPCA Senior Inspector Simon Primrose warned temperatures in vehicles could be double the outside heat and animals could die in less than six minutes. Last year we had an incident of a young Labrador who was left inside a car on a 35 degree day, with no water or shade. "This dog suffered a horrific death and endured heat stroke as a result of being exposed to extreme temperatures," he said. If found guilty of an offence of this type the accused could face up to two years imprisonment, $71,000 in fines and the prospect of receiving a banning order being a person prohibited from owning/being in charge of an animal for up to ten years. RSPCA Chief Executive Officer, Maria Mercurio, advises the public to leave their dogs at home during the warmer months. It is critical that pet owners understand the severe implications of leaving their pet in a car - the consequences are often irreversible. Unless you're able to guarantee a cool environment and plenty of fresh water on your travels, we urge pet owners to leave their pets at home. Last year RSPCA Victoria received 209 reports of animals left in vehicles. Anyone who sees a dog in a car is urged to call 000.