POLICE have given advice about what to do if you spot a dog trapped in a car as temperatures soar.

Dog owners are being told not to leave their pets in locked cars as the city is issued an extreme heat weather warning from the Met Office.

The Met Office issued the amber alert for parts of the UK as temperatures reach 30C this afternoon and remain high all day.

West Mercia Police has issued advice about what to do if a dog is spotted in distress in a locked car during the heatwave.

Anyone who suspects a dog is struggling with the heat in a locked car should immediately call 999.

They've also asked pet owners to be sensible about walking their dogs while the weather is so hot.

READ MORE: LIVE Latest in Worcester as Met Office issue extreme heat alert

"With temperatures set to reach 30C+ this week please be sensible when it comes to exercising your dogs.

"Missing a walk, or taking a later one, has never killed a dog but extreme heat can.

"If you spot a dog in distress inside a hot car dial 999."

Dogs Trust has also warned people that it could take just 20 minutes for a dog to die in a hot car. 

"Never leave your dog in a vehicle. In just 20 minutes, a dog could die in a hot car.

"Winding a window down is not enough to help your dog stay cool."

How can I tell if it is cool enough to walk my dog?

The hot weather will mean that a lot of our four-legged friends will probably have to do without 'walkies' over the next few days.

Even if you are tempted to take your dog out for a walk, Dogs Trust suggests doing the "seven second tarmac test".

"Tarmac can get very hot in the sun and could burn your dog’s paws. 

"Check the pavement with your hand before letting your dog walk on it — hold your hand down for seven seconds, if it's too hot for you, then it's too hot for your dog's paws."