Victoria Police are reminding pet owners it's kinder to leave your pet at home, rather than leave them in your car in this heat wave.
Dogs, as well as cats, cool themselves off through panting, and releasing heat through their paws. But if left in a hot car - even with the windows cracked open -- they can overheat quickly because the air and upholstery in your car heats up to temperatures that make it impossible for pets to cool themselves.
As well, don't exercise your dog in the heat of the day, and don't transport your dog in the bed of a pickup as the hot pick up bed can burn their paws. Your dog will be more comfortable if left at home.
Some of the symptoms of heatstroke include exaggerated panting, rapid or erratic pulse, salivation, and anxious or staring expression.
On days like we've been having temperatures inside a parked car can soar to between 37 and 49 Celsius (between 100 and 120 Fahrenheit) within minutes, which can cause brain damage or prove fatal.