SCORCHING Easter weather has prompted a flood of emergency calls to the RSPCA about animals suffering in the heat.

The charity received 166 calls, almost two every hour, over the bank holiday weekend, including three from the North Yorkshire area.

The majority of calls related to dogs being left in hot cars.

Over the same period in 2018, the RSPCA received just seven reports of a similar nature as the weather was much poorer.

Chief veterinary officer Caroline Allen said: "Every year we lead the annual Dog Die in Hot Cars campaign, but every year we continue to receive thousands of calls from concerned members of the public who have seen dogs left in these potentially lethal situations.

"It's really important to take extra care of our pets when it's hot outside as many animals can struggle in the warm temperatures.

"Make sure your animals has access to shade and always has fresh drinking water available. If you have a dog, walk them early in the morning or late at night when it's cooler and avoid taking them out for long days in the sun as they can easily overheat.

"If you're concerned that your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, speak to your vet as soon as possible."

Visit rspca.org.uk for details on keeping animals safe in summer.