
by Gráinne Connolly
People in the Newry, Mourne and Down area are reminded they could face prosecution for leaving pets locked in a car on a hot day.
Police say it's spotted various spots on social media highlighting this type of incident.
If anyone comes across an animal locked in a hot vehicle, the first point of access should be Animal Welfare Officers in local councils.
They're responsible for enforcement of the Welfare of Animals (NI) Order 2011, as it applies to non-farmed animals.
However, if an animal is in clear distress and it is an emergency, immediately dial 999 and ask for the police.
Police officers will smash your car window, if that’s what it takes, to rescue a dog in distress.
The PSNI says, "Under the Animal Welfare Act, owners have a legal duty to care for their pets and if you put them at risk you will face prosecution".