Petplan to raise awareness of canine distress in hot cars

Petplan has announced its support for a new national campaign designed to raise awareness of the potential health risk that overheated cars can pose to dogs.

The animal health insurer is allying with Dogs Today magazine to participate in the Don't Cook Your Dog Campaign, which is also being supported by the Dogs Trust, RSPCA and the Blue Cross.

It was noted that September is expected to be unusually warm this year, increasing the risk posed to canines that are kept inside hot cars for long periods, with Petplan noting that many breeds are more susceptible than other.

To support the campaign, Petplan will produce car stickers to raise awareness of the danger of leaving a pet unattended on a hot day.

Neil Brettell, director of Petplan, said: "As the pet people, responsible pet ownership is at the heart of everything we do and that is why we are encouraging dog owners to be extra-vigilant during this season."

In July 2011, the company announced the launch of a simplified policy range, designed to provide a clearer understanding of what its products deliver.