POLICE are urging dog-owners to make sure their pets are not left alone in cars during the hot weather.

West Mercia Police Operations and Communications Centre received at least two calls today from people who were concerned about dogs.

The centre's twitter page warned that the animals can die inside cars if temperatures are high enough.

Worcester Police Constable Dave Wise added that officers may be forced to smash the windows of vehicles to save trapped animals from overheating.