OFFICERS have rescued a dog that was found by a member of the public locked inside a vehicle during hot conditions in Bond Street, Chelmsford.

A passer-by noticed the animal in a car parked in an underground carpark and reported it to police at around 11.10am today.

PCSOs Karen Callega and Sue Southgate along with Pc James Willis gained access to the vehicle by opening a car door through a slightly opened window.

They then left a message for the owner that the dog had been taken back to Chelmsford police station.

Sergeant Graham Thomas, of Chelmsford’s Local Policing Team, said: “The dog was given a drink before its owner arrived to collect him and given words of advice. In this case, it was clear the owner realised he had made a mistake and was apologetic.

“We often get called to assist dogs that have been left in vehicles without sufficient water, ventilation or protection from the heat.

"Drivers think leaving a window slightly open is sufficient but they don’t realise that the interior temperature can rise by 19°F in as little as seven minutes, even in shaded areas.”

For more advice to keep your dog safe during the summer visit: https://www.essex.police.uk/advice/summer-safety/.